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At only 12 years old with less than 2 years of swimming experience under her belt, Madison Aguero has taken the 2021 Junior Olympics by storm! Within 6 months of competition, this Miami native surprised her family and coaches by grabbing 5 individual Jr. Olympic times with the 100M backstroke, 100M butterfly, 50M Freestyle, 50M butterfly and 50M Backstroke – not only qualifying, but making it to the
finals! “We are proud to know Madison can be one of several young female athletes who are starting to make headlines as pioneers in women’s sports,” said her family.
Coming from a sports oriented family, Madison began taking tennis lessons at the suggestion of her parents. After a while Madison says she found it “boring” and decided to join her younger brother with his swimming lessons at Florida International University. Not only did she enjoy it, she excelled!
Madison is currently ranked as the 10th fastest 50M butterfly swimmer, as well as the 10th fastest 50M backstroker in her age group, both records in South Florida. Florida currently holds one of the fastest qualifying times required for swimmers at the Jr. Olympics.
Madison says she enjoys swimming more because she’s part of a team, which makes it more fun. Her love for swimming was boosted when she had an online experience with gold medalist Breeja Larson followed by participating in the All-Star Swim Camp with Ryan Lochte and Breeja Larson’s earlier this summer. She then had the opportunity to see Lochte’s Olympic tryouts in Omaha, Nebraska. This added tremendously to her admiration for the sport! Listening to the “stories” from these athletes had a profound impact on Madison and her younger brother! “She’s very determined and self-motivated! Madison doesn’t like to miss a practice and gives her parents hell when she’s late. These are the qualities we look for in future swimmers!
Swimming is a sport that requires solid dedication and passion. Missing one day rolls you back two in training,” said head coach Larissa Perez, a former Olympian and coach with Bravo Swimming. Madison is also an excellent student, currently attending Ruth K. Broad Bay Harbor. She’s a typical 12 year old who enjoys traveling with her family and friends, and spending time with her dog Winnie! Madison’s younger brother Kai, at just 9 years old also shows signs of a champion swimmer. He is just one second away from his first Jr. Olympic time and catching up quickly! Madison continues her daily training with her Bravo Swimming team for state competitions, but says her dream is to swim for a top college, and possibly experience the Olympic blocks one day. When asked what advice she would give other young people taking up a sport, Madison replied, “Don’t be afraid to try something new. Do what you enjoy.” Wise words indeed from this young lady who is already showing signs of greatness!
A big thanks to her coaches, mentors and supporters; Bravo Swimming, Breeja Larson, Ryan Lochte, TYR, and our fellow chamber sponsor Circuit Academy in South Beach, a great place to train!
