Adam Peaty's early swimming instructors were "gobsmacked" by his talent as a child.
The staff at Uttoexeter Leisure Centre always knew their former charge was going to be special and were beaming with pride on Monday morning as Peaty made British swimming history by defending his Olympic title.
The 26-year-old was in a class apart as he powered to victory in the 100 metres breaststroke at Tokyo 2020, following up his triumph from Rio five years ago.
It was a performance that came as no surprise to many that have followed his career, not least his former instructor Sheila Hughes.
It is hoped Peaty's success will not only inspire current swimmers but encourage more people to take up the sport.
George Wood, sport development director of Swim England, said: "Every kid needs to learn to swim for their own safety and life skill.
"With Adam as the figurehead, I think it is going to be amazing for swimming, inspiring a whole new generation to get involved. This could be an amazing moment for swimming."
:: To find your nearest swimming club, visit discover.swimming.org.
** No-one does more to support UK Olympic and Paralympic athletes than National Lottery players, who raise around £36 million each week for good causes including elite and grassroots sport. Discover more about how playing the National Lottery supports Team GB's athletes by visiting www.national-lottery.co.uk/tokyo2020
