Richmond Dales ASC

Joanne was first selected for GB in 2001 as a junior and in 2003 as a senior. She swam in her first Olympic games in Athens but did not progress beyond the heats of the 400m Freestyle and said this was the biggest disappointment of career. She won a brace of medals at 2006 Commonwealth Games.

Her first sporting success was a medal at the European SC Championships 2003

Then came two silver medals at the Commonwealth Games (2006) with a new British record in the 400m and 800m Freestyle

Her first GB selection as a junior was in 2001and as a senior in 2003.

Following are some quotes from Joanne:

Tip for the top: Relax and be happy

Sporting heroes: Lance Armstrong

Favourite sport other than swimming: Athletics

Three words that best describe you: Committed, happy and relaxed

Would most like to meet: David Beckham

Biggest influence on career: My sister as she used to swim

Toughest opponent: Laure Manaudou (FRA)

Any pets: I have a dog called Tessa

Biggest passion away from swimming: Shopping!

How do you prepare to race: To prepare I try and stay relaxed and I listen to my ipod

Biggest disappointment: My performance at the Olympics (2004)

Favourite venue and why: Ponds Forge, Sheffield because I always put in quick times there

Tips to relax: Go shopping or spend time with friends

Family: My mum is called Gill and she's a Nursery Teacher. My dad is called Barry and he is a mechanic. My sister Nicola is 21 and she works in a nursery. I also have a brother called Kevin who is 24 and is an electrician

Ultimate ambition: To win an Olympic gold medal

Where do you see yourself in 10 years: Starting a family and having a new career, be joining the police or working with children