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Aster McCall
1. How do you stay motivated and push yourself in training?
Training is one of my favourite things to do! I love the feeling of pushing myself to the absolute maximum effort and chasing my goals for each session. I am a competitive person so having people faster than me helps me to push myself. I also have amazing coaches who believe in me and know how to get the most out of me.
2. Many athletes have pre-game rituals that help them get into the zone. What are some of your personal pre-game rituals or routines that you believe help you get in the zone before hitting the beach or pool?
Learning to have pre-race strategies has been really important for me and is something that I’m still working on. In the past I have experienced a lot of race day nerves that I’m learning to control. I have found that surrounding myself with fun people who love to chat helps me to take my mind off things so I can just enjoy myself instead of thinking too much about racing. I like to take my time with warm up to stay calm and relaxed.
3. Reflecting on your career so far, what would you consider as the most memorable or defining moment?
An exciting and memorable moment was doing my first ENGINE photoshoot! I had so much fun hanging out with amazing athletes and it was an experience I will never forget!
A defining moment was being in hospital and having surgery that put me out for 2 months. Not being able to do anything at all for that time was really difficult but it helped me to mentally work on my goals and what I need as an athlete.
4. Are there any specific achievements or milestones that you are particularly proud of and that you feel have significantly impacted your journey as an athlete?
I feel like every race in the pool or in the surf are significant because they all help me to grow and learn and develop as an athlete.
Winning the Surf Race at my first States and coming second in Boards were both really special moments for me. It gave me confidence and helped me to realise what I was capable of and confirmed my passion for surf sports.
5. Beyond your athletic pursuits, do you have any hobbies or passions that might surprise people?
I love to do art – whether it’s drawing DIY or painting I’m there for it! I am also passionate about the environment and protecting our oceans. I can’t wait to learn to free dive and swim with sharks.
6. How do you balance your intense training and competition schedule with personal interests outside of your sport?
I’m really lucky that I train and race with my friends so it doesn’t feel like I’m missing out since we are hanging out every day having fun and pushing each other to be our best.
7. What are you top 3 ENGINE products (either for racing or training)?
1. Santorini swimmers!!! I own every single colour of these amazing togs! I absolutely LOVE the Santorinis because they are so comfy to train and race in and they come in such fun and cute colours.
2. The HOODIES are a must – I love the colour combinations and they are super fluffy and comfy.
3. The whole EngineActive range is amazing! I love the Cross Back Sports Bra and V-neck Sports Bra. They are both perfect for the gym or going for a run paired with the Short Tights. The Lavender Sage and Black combos all look amazing and are the perfect fit!
