Katie Ledecky gained attention during the 2016 Rio Olympics by securing three gold medals. Her success was attributed not only to her talent but also to the guidance provided by Bruce Gemmell, who served as her coach during the event. Even after winning, both Katie and her coach started crying out of happiness. Katie shared, “Bruce doesn’t cry very often, but it was a very happy moment, and it’s been a pleasure to share this journey with him.” Interestingly, Erin Gemmell, Bruce’s daughter, was in 5th grade at that time. However, the situation has since changed.
Erin, now 19, is a second-year college student and is teaming up with Ledecky “her idol” for the Paris Olympics. They are both participating in the 4x200m freestyle relay, showing that Erin is following in her father’s mentorship and the footsteps of Ledecky.
When Katie Ledecky swam at the 2016 Rio Olympics, she was coached by Erin Gemmell’s dad, Bruce. At that time, Gemmell was in fifth grade.
Today, Erin Gemmell is a rising sophomore in college, and she just made the Paris Olympic team together with Ledecky in the 4×200 free relay. pic.twitter.com/N4ZS4J8GV1
— Yanyan Li (@yyanyanli1) June 18, 2024
But their bond started in a respectful way. As Gemmell once mentioned feeling “terrified” when she first met Ledecky as a child but Lecdecky was so welcoming. well, their bond began in 2013
How did the relationship between Erin Gemmell and Katie Ledecky begin?
In 2013, Erin Gemmellat was going to a Halloween party. She decided to emulate her idol, Katie Ledecky. While her pals went for superhero attire like capes and tights Gemmell stood out with goggles and a Team USA swim cap bearing the name “LEDECKY”. This was actually a gift from Ledecky. Little did Gemmell realize that this simple costume choice would be the beginning of her journey.
As Gemmell developed her own swimming career, she found herself not just admiring Ledecky from afar but also becoming her teammate. “I’ve been around her and have looked up to her for so long. I just think it’s so neat that we wound up swimming some of the same events,” said Erin. But their bond got stronger was when they competed in various events together. And finally secured a place in Team USA’s entry in the women’s 4×200-meter freestyle relay at the World Aquatic Championships.
” I get goosebumps when we start practicing relay starts as a group.” Gemmell’s journey to this point was only possible because of Ledecky’s influence. “‘I don’t think I’d be here if it weren’t for her. It’s so special being close to someone so inspirational…it makes her [accomplishments] seem a lot more achievable and makes her seem a lot more human.” She channeled her motivation, ultimately earning her place alongside her childhood idol.
