Cate Campbell is an Olympic gold medallist and world champion. She made her Olympic debut at the age of 16 at the 2008 Beijing Games and claimed two bronze medals. Since then, she’s represented Australia at four Olympics, two Commonwealth Games, three World Championships and three Pan Pacific Championships. At the 2018 Pan Pacs in Tokyo, Cate took home a whopping five gold medals, giving her an overall international gold medal tally of 18. The Dolphins leader also holds two world records, and one games record and was one of the two flag-bearers for the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.
DEAR LITTLE CATE,
Hey little Cate – although, at nearly six-foot-one, I know you think you aren’t that little. Trust me, you are. You have so much growing still to do, although thankfully not much more upwards, a few centimetres at most. And don’t worry, this year the boys at school also start growing, a few will catch you in height, you won’t be the tallest in the grade for much longer.
At nearly 30, I have now lived your entire lifetime over again. I won’t spoil it for you, but I do have a few words of wisdom to help you along your journey. Firstly, stand tall. Figuratively and literally. Never feel the need to make yourself smaller than you are. I know you are quiet and shy; you like to crouch in the safety of other people’s shadows. Dimming your light lest you grow bright enough to throw your own shadow. What you don’t realise, is your dreams are already head and shoulders clear of [those of] your peers, and your fiery determination is already burning brightly. So, pull your shoulders back and lift your head. Own your strengths, your quirks, your peculiarities. You think they are the cause of your painful shyness, and are what prevent you from being invisible, when, in fact, they are what people love most about you. Your dreams are what make you stand out, be proud of that.
Speaking of people who love you; hold onto them. They will be with you for life. Your greatest achievement in life isn’t the medals or accolades (and yes, there are plenty of both), it is the people you have chosen to surround yourself with. Look around you, some of these people will be there for you in your moments of need. Cherish them. Nurture them. Lean on them. If you’re not sure who I’m talking about here are a few clues: they are the ones who fan the flames of your dreams, who make you feel taller than your already tall frame and who allow you to quickly copy their homework during lunchtime because they know you didn’t have time to finish it last night. You will be lucky to cross paths with many other wonderful people, and once you find them don’t let them go. They will fill your life with technicolour joy, raucous laughter, and gentle, tender moments.
A few last things before I go (because as you’ll find out, you’re going to be quite busy). I’m so sorry to have to tell you this: you will never completely grow out of getting pimples. I suggest finding a good three-step skincare routine (because I know you are too lazy for any more steps than that). Also, eyebrows. They are important. Do not follow the plucking trend like your classmates. Eyebrows don’t always grow back, and without them, you look a bit like an alien. I suggest using eyebrow-dye at least once a week to help combat bleaching from the chlorine. Lastly, as soon as laser hair removal becomes available, go, and get it on your bikini-line and under-arms. If you take one thing from this letter, let it be smooth, ingrown hair- and razor rash-free underarms.
And with that my dear little Cate, you are ready to take on the next 15 years of life. You are already strong, brave, and determined. You are already kind, empathetic, and generous. While your fashion sense isn’t always super chic, you don’t make any major faux pas. I am so excited thinking about what lies ahead of you. Good luck, and bon-voyage.
ALL MY LOVE,
CATE
Swimming sensations (and sisters!) Bronte and Cate Campbell have released their first book, Sister Secrets, featuring personal stories of their journey to greatness: the triumph, defeat, highs, lows… And how it all shaped their relationship with each other and with swimming. Sister Secrets is published by Allen & Unwin, RRP $24.99, and is available in bookstores and online now.
