Katie Ledecky

More than anything, praying just helps me to concentrate and let go of things that don't matter in that moment. It gives me peace knowing I'm in good hands.

It's always great to see young swimmers and their excitement and the joy that they have in the water.

I try to make the good days great and take something positive from the days I'm not feeling good - work on technique or something like that.

My faith has always been important to me. It defines who I am.

I would encourage you to set really high goals. Set goals that, when you set them, you think they're impossible. But then every day you can work towards them, and anything is possible, so keep working hard and follow your dreams.

I think the beauty of Catholicism is its consistency through both successes and difficulties. I've counted on my faith to give me strength through both training and competition - but also in school, with my family and everyday life.