Former Team GB Olympic swimmer Helen Smart dies aged 43

Tributes have been paid to former British Olympic swimmer Helen Smart after she died “suddenly” aged 43.

Ms Smart, then recognized by her maiden title Don-Duncan, represented Great Britain on the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games and received bronze on the Kuala Lumpur Commonwealth Games in 1998.

She was the 200m British backstroke champion within the late Nineteen Nineties earlier than retiring to turn out to be a headteacher at a major college within the North West.

Her husband Craig mentioned she was “so proud to reach her goal of being a headteacher”.

Paying tribute to her dedication to Worsley Mesnes Community Primary School in Wigan, he added: “I remember only last week she said her goal was to get the school to outstanding.”

The reason for her demise has not been revealed, however her husband urged her college students: “Please learn from this and live your best life, no regrets.”

Several of her fellow Team GB swimmers shared their condolences on Twitter.

Former Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies mentioned it was “very sad news”. She described her as a “fierce competitor” and “always a pleasure to interview”, saying she at all times had a “huge smile on her face”.

Ex-world champion British swimmer Mark Foster mentioned she had an “infectious smile and laugh”. “Always lit up a room and was a joy to be around,” he wrote.

British Swimming mentioned in an announcement that members of the neighborhood had been “deeply saddened” to be taught of her demise.

“All our thoughts and condolences are with Helen’s family and friends, as well as those in the swimming community who trained, competed and worked with Helen during her time in the sport,” they wrote.

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Her colleagues additionally paid tribute to her. Alison Halliwell, the chair of governors at her college, mentioned: “It is with great sadness and regret that I have to announce the sudden death of our beloved headteacher, Mrs Helen Smart.

“Our heart-felt condolences are despatched to Helen’s household at this very tough time. I do know this news will probably be a shock and trigger nice unhappiness to our neighborhood.

“I want to reassure you that the governors of Worsley Mesnes School are working with the local authority and school to ensure that our children, staff and parents will receive the necessary support in the coming weeks.”

Chris Dyson, who labored together with her, posted on-line: “Lots of hearts were broken yesterday with the tragic news of the passing of the inspirational HT Helen Smart.

“She meant a lot to a lot of us. Our love and prayers go to all her household and pals. I solely noticed her 4 weeks in the past.”