Launceston starlet turned Tokyo Olympics superstar Ariarne Titmus continued her homecoming tour, visiting the school she once attended.
St Patricks College reached fever pitch on Wednesday as 21-year-old Titmus returned to walk the halls of the school - this time as a gold medallist.
Titmus said the pandemonium surrounding her Olympic success was bigger in Launceston than it was on the mainland.
"Tassie really claims everything and they grab everything with their two hands, and I'm so happy that everyone down here supported me at the Olympics and they still claim me as theirs," she said.
"Back in Brisbane it's a way bigger city, so it's not as full on. But here I knew it was going to be hectic coming down, but I love that."
Wednesday was the first time the now Brisbane-based swimmer had returned to the college, and she said while the look of it had changed, the vibe remained.
"It's still go the same community spirit, and I really loved that about the school," Titmus said.
Windows of the college were adorned with signs congratulating the Olympian, and students battled to get her attention. But it was all in a day's work for the sensation.
"It's not new for me, bit you also still pinch yourself sometimes. I'm the same person that I was when I was here, I haven't really changed much, I'm just a professional athlete now," Titmus said.
"The Olympics is the biggest event, I believe, and to win gold medals at that, no wonder they get excited, but I hope I can be an inspiration to them."
While she was unsure whether or not the next St Patricks Olympian was in the school's cohort, she still handed down some pearls of wisdom for anyone looking to ascend to her throne.
"You never know where someone's going to end up," she said.
"But don't limit yourself. A lot of kids here probably swim at the aquatic centre or compete and don't think it's that serious, but if you really put your mind to something you just don't know what's going to happen. You can't predict the future and I think it's really important to always work hard, stay humble and dream big."
The next stop in Titmus' homecoming tour would be at Launceston Harvey Norman on Thursday from 11am, before a final stop at Civic Square when she is handed a key to Launceston.
What do you think? Send us a letter to the editor:
