Thorpe’s coach works with Kiwi

When Ian Thorpe arrived at the Sydney Olympics, snaring three gold and two silver medals, Doug Frost was in the stands watching his young charge excel.

As of this month, Frost – a member of swim coaching royalty – joined promising Kiwi swimmer Lewis Clareburt’s camp as he targets medals at the Tokyo Olympics and beyond.

The Wellington 19-year-old is coached by Gary Hollywood at the Capital Swim Club, but when Hollywood got in touch with his coaching mentor, Frost, they were able to form a dream coaching team for young Clareburt.

‘Frost has been in semi retirement, living on a golf course in Australia. He loves his rugby league, following his beloved St George-Illawarra Dragons closely, and is a big fan of rock and roll.

When Hollywood got in contact, asking for some assistance with his swim programme while he attended his father’s 80th birthday in Ireland, Frost headed for the closest airport.

In little over a week in Wellington, Frost has only good things to say about Clareburt.

‘‘[Lewis] has all the qualities. I’ve only been here for a week and a half but I now know where [he’s] at and the potential [he] has and I’m quite impressed with the work ethic. If he’s setting the standard for the group and they all get on board with that, there will be more success in the group.’’