Peart (pictured top), who managed Team GB in the pool at Beijing 2008, where they finished as the third most successful nation in the sport with two golds, two silvers and two bronzes – matching their best performance from Stockholm 1912, has been involved in British Swimming since 1994.

However, she was also team manager for London 2012 where the nation claimed just three medals – two bronzes from Rebecca Adlington and a silver from Michael Jamieson – and missed the target of five set by UK Sport, sparking a review into the British Swimming set up.

She was head coach for Britain between 1999 and 2001 before becoming team manager, a role she has held since 2007, and as well as the last two Olympic Games, has led the teams at three World Long Course Championships.

"I'm absolutely delighted to have been offered this position and the chance to lead the England team in 2014" Peart said.

"I have been involved with high performance swimming for a number of years and I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to this role.

"Being a team leader for a home Commonwealth Games is a unique opportunity which I am looking forward to immensely."


National performance director Chris Spice welcomed Peart's appointment ahead of next year's Games.

"Dawn has been an integral part of the British Swimming team for a number of years either in a coaching or team manager capacity," he explained.

"I have no doubt that she will do a fantastic job for Commonwealth Games England as the Team Leader for the swimming team."

Don Parker, sports director at Commonwealth Games England, echoed Spice's words, saying he is looking forward to welcoming Peart to the team.

"I'm very pleased to welcome someone of Dawn's character and experience to our organisation as team leader for swimming," he added.

"The Commonwealth Games are 400 days away as of tomorrow, and we are working hard to ensure we send the strongest and best prepared England team possible to Glasgow.

"Dawn will be a key part of this process and we are all looking forward to working with her."

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


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