Racing alongside mates has Steven Kent feeling lucky and training hard

There are a few great things about being in a relay team for Steven Kent.

“For me it gives you an extra motivation in training, not just doing it for yourself, others are relying on me to be the best I can,” he said.

“I’m lucky that my relay team mates are also my great friends so it’s awesome to be in it together and race for each other!”

The youngest of four brothers, Kent says he followed his siblings into the sport but has also always just had a love of water.

His love of water now has him spending a couple of months in Europe for training and competition.

He is currently in Spain with the rest of the New Zealand swim team for an altitude training camp before the Glasgow Commonwealth Games; they will also spend some time in France to compete in the French Open.

“It is always nice to be in summer when training hard. I love training outdoors when possible. Also experiencing a very different culture is always fun,” Kent said of his time away.

“This is my third altitude; I really enjoy the challenge and the effects when I get back to sea level.”

Kent will be making the most of this time spent at altitude to achieve his goals of going the fastest he has ever been and to help his relay team be medal prospects at Glasgow 2014.

Heading into the Commonwealth Games Kent said it’s an honour to be representing New Zealand, his club, family and himself. He is also looking forward to becoming team mates with other New Zealand athletes and supporting them.