Walsh parents ready to cheer on both daughters at U.S. Olympic Trials

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - Glynis and Robert Walsh are seasoned veteran swimming parents. They’ve watched their daughters compete all over the world at the highest levels of competition. And this month, they will cheer on Alex and Gretchen in what will be their third U.S. Olympic Swimming Trials.

“In 2021 I tell people in 10 days I feel like I aged 10 years,” said Glynis.

“It was so stressful. So many emotions. Total roller coaster.”

The ride in 2021 took Alex to the Tokyo Olympics.

And because of the COVID protocols at the time, families had to watch from back home.

We were in the Walsh’s living room with them the night Alex won silver in the 200IM to witness a deafening celebration.

“No doubt the noise level was just overwhelming,” said Robert. “Our house was shaking. It was phenomenal.”

“We all jumped off the couch in excitement and like Robert said, I couldn’t hear for two days. My house was shaking,” added Glynis.

Fast-forward three years, and the Walsh parents will be in the stands in Indianapolis to watch both Alex and Gretchen try to earn spots on the 2024 US team.

“It’s just unreal. I can’t process it all the time. I feel a little more prepared and excited,” said Glynis.

This time around, the excitement comes with expectation.

Both Alex and Gretchen are considered favorites to make the team if they perform like they have this past season.

“They broke so many American and NCAA records. Alex has the most swimming titles in ACC history. We’re just hoping all the stars align for them and it does happen,” said Glynis.

“The whole thing seems a little surreal,” said Robert.

“We still think back to when they were young swimming. A lot of commitment on their part and it’s just been great.”

The results speak for themselves.

The girls each piled up trophies for the University of Virginia, as well as some in international competitions.

All a precursor to what they hope will be the next step at the Trials.

Last time, Gretchen didn’t make the Olympic team. This time could be different.

“I’m really excited,” said Glynis.

“She’s on a roll. I really hope it comes together for her, for both of them. It is their dream to make the team together.”

Robert is quick to point out, “having two swimmers compete, while it’s double the blessings, it’s double the curse of being nervous the entire time.”

The U.S. Swim Trials run from June 15th to June 23rd. Alex and Gretchen will each compete in three events.

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