Autum Claxton: Rising through the ranks of British swimming

Autum said: “Once I’d finished all the different coloured hats, I started to find a real love for swimming. 

“I just wanted to keep going.” 

Despite her enthusiasm, breaking into club swimming wasn’t straightforward. Being so young meant opportunities were limited, but eventually Autum was welcomed into a small local club, Chadderton, where her competitive journey truly began at just five/six years old. 

“That’s where it all really started,” she said.  

“From then on, I just loved it. Even on holiday I always want to swim, I can’t stop.” 

As she grew older, Autum joined Stockport Swimming Club’s Development Squad at the age of 8 before progressing into their National Squad at the age of 11. Along the way, she faced setbacks, but her determination never wavered. 

She said: “I’ve had quite a few challenges. 

“People would tell me I wouldn’t get accepted into clubs, but I just kept going.” 

That perseverance has paid off.  

Autum has gone on to collect medals across regional and national competitions and has been selected for high-level training opportunities, including regional, national, and England pathway camps.  

She has also represented her country on the international stage, competing at the ISF World Championships in 2025 coming out with a bronze in the relay, an opportunity she describes as a defining moment in her journey. 

Looking ahead, Autum isn’t afraid to dream big. 

“My main goal is to head towards the Olympics,” she said.  

“I’m on that pathway and I’ve got the mindset and the drive. I’d love to make one, or even two Olympics.” 

But her ambitions don’t stop at personal success. Autum is already thinking about how she can support others, with a particular interest in mindset and mental wellbeing. 

“I’d love to help athletes with their mindset.  

“Swimming isn’t just about being fast, it’s about what’s going on in your head. I’ve had setbacks where I’ve put myself down, and I want to help others get through that.” 

As one of the older swimmers in her club at 15, Autum has naturally become a role model for younger athletes, something she takes great pride in. 

“They ask me questions all the time. 

“If they’ve had a bad race, I’ll sit with them and talk it through. I always tell them it’s about trying, staying motivated, and wanting to be better.” 

Autum’s maturity and desire to give back were clear when she was selected for SportsAid support which is a moment she describes as a huge relief. 

She continued: “When I found out, I was absolutely ecstatic. 

 “There’s a lot of pressure as an athlete, especially financially. My parents were spending so much on meets, camps and travel, and I’d feel guilty asking for more.” 

With multiple siblings and additional family responsibilities, opportunities were sometimes out of reach, until SportsAid stepped in. 

“SportsAid has taken a massive pressure off me. 

“I can now say yes to opportunities I would’ve had to turn down before. Without SportsAid, I wouldn’t have been able to go to the World Championships earlier this year. It’s opened so many doors and made me feel amazing.” 

For Autum, being supported by SportsAid is about more than funding, it’s about belief. 

“I want to show that someone with dreams can be successful,” she said. “And if I can inspire younger swimmers to keep going, then that means everything.” 

With her talent, determination, and commitment to helping others, Autum Claxton is already making an impact far beyond the pool, and SportsAid is proud to be part of her journey.