ROANOKE, Va. – Olivia Bray, a standout swimmer from Daleville, is gearing up for her third Olympic Trials, but this time, the stage is set in the massive Lucas Oil Stadium. This venue is a significant change from the usual swimming arenas, and for Bray, the experience is overwhelming but exciting.
“Being in a football stadium is really overwhelming,” Bray said. “I’ve never been in one before. I was looking around like, ‘Oh my God, this is crazy.’ But it’s just helped prepare me to take it as, yes, it is the US Olympic Trials. It’s the most stressful and fun event in the world, but it is just another swim meet.”
Having just wrapped up her senior season with the Texas Longhorns, Bray is ready to dive into the competition. This weekend, she will compete in her third Olympic Trials, bringing a wealth of experience and a positive mindset.
“I want to go and show up for myself, my team, my family, my teammates. I just want to have fun. There are a lot of different wins that I can have this week that aren’t just making the Olympic team, making the final, or semifinal. I want to enjoy the process. I want to be proud of myself no matter what.”
Bray is not the only swimmer from her area making waves. Duke University freshman and Rockbridge High School graduate Ali Pfaff is heading to the Olympic Trials for the first time. Like Bray, Pfaff emphasizes the importance of enjoying the experience.
“This has to be fun and at the end of the day, it’s a sport. It’s meant to be fun, so I’m just excited to go there for the trials, for the experience, and enjoy it,” Pfaff said.
Pfaff’s previous experiences, including racing on big stages like the ACC Championship, help her maintain a calm demeanor.
“Just trying to remind myself that at the end of the day, it’s always going to be a 50m pool no matter where you are. Keeping that in mind and just trying not to let myself get too nervous.”
The transformation of a football stadium into a natatorium underscores the significance of this event and the attention it garners. The anticipation is palpable, and both swimmers are ready to showcase their talents.
“I like to see what USA swimming can do. They always shock the world, and I think this is going to be no different,” Bray added.
Southwest Virginia will undoubtedly be cheering for Olivia Bray and Ali Pfaff as they compete in the Olympic Trials, bringing pride and excitement to their hometowns.