Athlete of the Week: Jeff Lum

Year: Sophomore Hometown: Hong Kong, China

Major: Communication

The Corsair: How did you get into swimming?

Jeff Lum: Actually, my dad is a swimming coach. When I was young, he took me to a pool and threw me in when I was 3 or 4 years old. After that I thought it was really fun and then I started training when I as 7 years old. I got onto the Hong Kong team when I was 12 years old for about 9 years.

TC: What events do you compete in?

JL: I compete in the 50 Individual Medley, the 100 Individual Medley, and the 200 Freestyle. This year I will be doing the 200 Individual Medley, 400 Individual Medley, and the Breaststroke.

TC: What is your greatest sports memory?

JL: When I was in high school, I joined the swim team called DBS (Diocesan) and I

was the team captain. I led my team to one of the many school championships.

TC: Who influences you and why?

JL: First, my father is my influence because he is my swim coach. The second is Jason Lezak because he is one of the Olymipic medalists in Bejing in 2008.

TC: Who is your favorite artist?

JL: Lady Gaga

TC: What is your favorite class at SMC?

JL: My favorite class is Counseling 20. My professor teaches all the athletåes and he understands athletes. He always asks about how practice is going. He is really great.

TC: What’s the best advice you can give to someone who wants to start swimming?

JL: Try hard and do not be afraid of the water. It can change your life and a lot of meaning can come from it.

TC: Why did you choose swimming over other sports? I did not choose swimming. It chose me.

TC: How long does your workout routine last?

JL: It can be up to 5 hours everyday.

TC: Would you pursue the chance to be on the Olympic team?

JL: It is my dream to be on the Olympic team in 2012. I am driving towards that goal.

TC: What is your daily routine like?

JL: I wake up at 6:15 and I walk my dog. Then I eat breakfast and feed my dog. After, I pack up and get ready for training at 7:15 and finish around 9. I go home and rest for a while.  After that I go to the gym and work out for about 3 hours. Then I go home once again and before I have night class on campus, and then my day ends.

TC: What is your diet like?

JL: I am on a strict diet. I am not allowed to eat fast food. But I eat something unhealthy at least once a week.

“Jeff is a phenomenal athlete,” said head swimming coach Steven Contarsy.  “He has marvelous swimming technique, and most importantly, he has a tremendous work ethic.  Jeff is never satisfied.  He is always striving to improve and make himself a better athlete. He has been a tremendous asset to our program.”