Why you should keep your event mementos

They are much more than clutter and dust collectors

Last weekend I was hoping to swim at an event in Brighton. Unfortunately, it was cancelled due to the weather.

Finding myself with time on my hands, I decided to tidy my office, which is full of mementos from swimming events. I’ve got trophies, plaques, tankards, paperweights, medals and certificates. Mostly, they create clutter and gather dust.

Dusty trophies, clear memories

I briefly considered clearing space and throwing them away. But each one I picked up triggered a memory – that is, after all, what mementos are supposed to do. I ended up spending more time reminiscing than cleaning.

Some cast my mind back to the swims. I remembered how I’d struggled with rough conditions, aching muscles, the cold, and even overheating. It was good to reflect on how I’d found the will to continue and the lessons learned.

Others reminded me of the amazing people I’d swum with and the beautiful places I’ve been lucky enough to visit through swimming. I found myself holding a lump of glass and smiling about the memories it triggered.

More than just events

But it’s not just the events themselves I remembered. I thought about the planning and training that had gone into making certain swims possible, and about how events inspire me to train and see what’s possible. The mementoes are not just markers of events, they are symbols of lifestyle choices.

I also remember when I first started putting my mementoe on display. I wasn’t completely comfortable with it. Who was I trying to impress?

But it turns out, nobody needs to be impressed or even interested. These things are not on display for other people, but for me, and as a reminder of all the good things swimming has brought into my life.

If you’re new to swimming and taking part in your first events, make sure to collect your memento. If you’ve been swimming for a while and your event memorabilia is crammed into a cupboard, bring it out. Clear a shelf for it. Invest in a medal hanger. Or make one.

Yes, mostly they will collect dust. They probably look untidy. You may feel you’re being pretentious. But so what? Now and then, pick one up, and let the warm glow of memories wash over you. Because, in the end, it’s not just about the swim, it’s the story they tell.