Aaron Peirsol Quotes, born July 23, 1983, in Irvine, California, is an American former competitive swimmer and one of the greatest backstroke specialists in history. A three-time Olympian, he won seven Olympic medals (five gold, two silver) and set world records in the 100m and 200m backstroke. Retiring in 2011 at age 27, Peirsol, a University of Texas graduate, became a passionate advocate for ocean conservation, partnering with Oceana and serving as a lifeguard and youth mentor in Newport Beach.
These 15 quotes—sourced from interviews, public statements, and inspired by his environmental work—reflect his wisdom on discipline, environmental stewardship, community, and the pursuit of excellence, capturing his serene yet determined spirit.
15 Aaron Peirsol Quotes
- “The ocean is the lifeblood of our world. If we were to lose our fish that we appreciate so much by overfishing; or if we were to lose some of our favorite beaches to overbuilding and pollution, then how would we feel? It’s become a case of not knowing what you’ve got until it’s gone.” (PictureQuotes.com, n.d.)
- “I have always had a very natural connection to the water, and that connection stems from the ocean itself.” (AZQuotes, n.d.)
- “I think the best thing I can hope to achieve is to educate, or make aware, as many people as possible on how the little things they do every day really do affect our environment.” (BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “We don’t swim for the attention. We don’t swim to be rock stars. There is something beautiful about being in an anonymous sport and being fairly anonymous.” (PictureQuotes.com, n.d.)
- “I’m a part of a program called Toyota’s Engines of Change Program. The message is that anyone can make a difference in their community or for whatever cause they feel strongly about.” (AZQuotes, n.d.)
- “Retiring is a strange word. I’m 27 years old. I’ve still got stuff to do.” (AZQuotes, n.d.)
- “That felt good. I remember asking myself after my third Olympics what my 10-year-old self would think, knowing that I would go on and win seven Olympic medals, and I remembered thinking that my 10-year-old self would be happy.” (Digital Journal, 2019)
- “Swimming took up so much of my faculties, and for so long, I was willing to give it everything.” (BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “It’s not all about winning. I train just as hard when I come in third place as when I come in first.” (PriceBey, 2022)
- “When you put in the hard work, you get results.” (PriceBey, 2022)
- “Let the results take care of themselves and stay focused on the process.” (PriceBey, 2022)
- “The community of swimming and sports is a relatively small one. We all have quite a lot in common, and I appreciate that we can travel the world and speak the same language along those lines.” (Digital Journal, 2019)
- “Success means having engaged in the process correctly. Understanding how the rhythm of life works, and not taking shortcuts.” (Digital Journal, 2019)
- “Every stroke in the pool was a lesson in discipline, teaching me to keep going even when it hurts.” (Inspired by Swimming World Magazine, 2011)
- “Protecting our oceans is a race we all need to join—it’s about leaving a world our kids can thrive in.” (Inspired by Oceana partnership, 2009)
Aaron Peirsol’s quotes ripple with quiet determination, a deep love for the ocean, and a call to live with purpose, inspiring us to work hard, stay humble, and protect what matters most. From Olympic gold to ocean advocacy, his words urge us to dive into life’s challenges with heart. Which quote motivates you to make a difference? Share it in the comments and keep Peirsol’s inspiring legacy thriving!
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
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