Martin's story
Posted 8 March 2012
Martin Smith has overcome a fear of the water to become a competitive swimmer. He has also enjoyed success with other sports as well.
After years of hard work and practice, Martin, now 30, was awarded a black belt in karate—an achievement that he'll never forget.
‘When I got my first black belt, I was happy and I was crying with joy,' he says.
Martin lives at Redcliffe, north of Brisbane, and has been practising karate for more than 13 years. After being recognised with a black belt, he has gone on to receive his 1st and 2nd Dan in the martial art.
He has participated in basketball since he was a teenager, and also competed at the Down Syndrome Down Under Swimming Organisation 1st National Swimming Championships and Novice Challenge (Down Syndrome Swimming National Games) in 2011.
As Martin's mum, Maureen, says, ‘He loves sport-he lives and breathes it.'
What keeps him motivated?
For Martin, sport is much more about how he can help others than it is about achieving success himself.
Every week, he helps people with their karate moves at local classes. He is a sensei (qualified teacher) and works alongside a senior instructor. Helping class members practise warm up kicks and strikes, and checking they are using correct technique, are part of Martin's role.
‘I try to get them to keep smiling and to have fun-to enjoy themselves and to have a good time,' he says.
Away from karate, Martin assists with a local basketball team—as well as playing the sport.
He also trains in the pool and loves swimming, even though he was scared of the water when he was little.
After a training session was cancelled one day, Martin still went to the pool to train himself. Another swimmer from the squad showed up-not realising there was no official training available.
Martin quickly decided to offer the swimmer informal advice to help her with her stroking and breathing technique in the pool.
‘Martin said, "I can help!"', remembers his mum, Maureen.
Recently, Martin has decided to complete his first level in swimming coaching. He is studying online and attending courses as part of the qualification.
Teaching and supporting other people is what Martin enjoys the most about participating in sport.
‘I like helping people. When I help them, I'm helping myself. It is not about winning or losing. It is about friendships, teamwork, being there to help them and being a good sport and a good student of the game,' he says.
Achieving milestones
Martin turned 30 in September last year. His birthday was announced over the loudspeaker in a message at the Down Syndrome Swimming National Games in Noosa.
The day before, Martin celebrated the occasion with his friends at the pool.
‘It was special for me,' he says. ‘At swimming, they sung to me "Happy birthday". It was a good birthday and we had a good time at the swimming pool.'
Martin plans to keep training several times a week as part of his sports-packed schedule.
‘I'm enjoying myself, and I love to be with my friends,' he says.
