LAKEVILLE, Minn. — Lakeville native Regan Smith's first Olympic experience in the 2020 Summer Games was unique.
"My parents, rarely, if ever, miss any of my swim meets. To not have them there in Tokyo was really difficult," said Regan Smith.
Equally difficult for her father Paul and the rest of the Smith family.
"It was such a chaotic time three years ago. Your heart rate ticks up, you just want nothing but the best," said Regan's Dad, Paul.
As long as she qualifies, the Smiths will share their Paris Summer Games experience together.
"I'm really excited for them, and myself, to have the opportunity to share that experience together, I think it will be great," said Regan.
"She can actually go (points) and see somebody that's there that's caring about her. That's great," said Paul Smith.
Regan is the American record holder in the 100m backstroke, just behind Australian Kaylee McKeown, who owns the world record and bragging rights after last summer's World Championships.
"Yeah, I'm really exciting, I think she brings out the best in me," said the younger Smith.
"They both want to beat the tar out of each other. Regan's ready, and she's at her best. I know Kaylee will be at her best, and that's the best thing in sports, right? I think if they're both at their very best, to be very blunt, it's a coinflip," said Paul Smith.
A coin flip that could result in the 22-year old Smith finishing with a different colored medal this time around.
"Yeah it would mean a lot (to win gold). I had two silvers and a bronze, and so I've hit two out of three, and so I'd love to complete my collection I suppose you could say," said Regan.
"The flag comes down, and we've had that experience when she's been a gold medalist at Worlds, and things like that, but it's not the Olympics," said Paul Smith.
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