Local boy, made good, Zane Grothe has had a spectacular swimming career beginning with his first days splashing as a baby in the local pool, to competing at age 4, to being a world champion (twice!). Here’s just a short list of accomplishments he’s had over his career:
- 8X US National Team
- 7X National Champion
- 5X Olympic Trials Qualifier
- 3X US Open Record Holder
- 2X American Record Holder
- 2X World Champion
We caught up with him before his return to Boulder City tomorrow, where a large poster will be dedicated to him at the Municipal Pool lobby. Here’s what he had to say:
What was your favorite moment of your swimming career? My favorite moment was when I won gold at the Pan Pacific Championships of 2018 in Tokyo, Japan. To be specific, the moment wasn’t the race but standing on the podium knowing they were playing the US national anthem for me. It was validating knowing I earned that for our country.
As a young man, growing up in Boulder City, did you ever imagine you’d have the incredible international success that you did? Were you always driven to push ahead? I definitely envisioned becoming one of the best. Ever since I learned what the Olympics were in 2nd grade I knew I wanted to get there someday. I’ve now learned that despite not making an Olympic team, I will still easily be considered Olympic level based on my other accomplishments.
As a child, did you participate in any other sports? What made swimming special to you? Growing up I played Little League, soccer, basketball, bmx, and dance (tap, and swing). Swimming was the first I tried and was always my best. I also made more friends outside of BC along the way that are still in my life today. You can’t beat that.
Now that you’ve competed at the highest levels, what advice would you give to other young people who are just beginning their sports careers? Have fun with it. If you want to get to the highest level it will take more time than you can imagine. If you’re not having fun along the way then you’re wasting valuable time. Find a way to make it fun or go do something else you can enjoy.
What do you plan to do now that you’ve retired from professional swimming? I am actually in my final season now. I will be retired before the end of the year though. I will be graduating in December with a Master’s Degree of Aerospace Engineering. I look forward to getting a job in the aerospace industry next year and following my other passions that I’ve put off for so long.
We wish Zane much success in his final season and with his career outside the pool! Join Zane, his family, and other members of the community to celebrate. It will take place at the Boulder City Municipal Pool, located at 861 Avenue B. Stop by Saturday, April 8 at 9:00AM. Hip hip hooray!
