Polly Swann

Polly Swann is a doctor and Olympian, currently undertaking her general surgery specialty training in NHS Highlands. As a medical student Polly took 6 years of leave to compete as a full-time athlete in the sport of rowing where she won an Olympic Silver medal, a world championship title and three European championship titles. Polly completed her degree in 2019 and also qualified to complete in the Tokyo Olympics Games in the same year.

Polly is a remarkable individual who has achieved greatness in both the medical field and the world of sports. She is a two-time Olympian and has been recognised as one of the University of Edinburgh's greatest sporting alumni, with a place in the University's Sports Hall of Fame.

What is particularly inspiring about Polly's story is how she balanced her medical career with her athletic pursuits. While training for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, she also worked as a junior doctor during the early stages of the COVID pandemic. Her ability to juggle these two demanding fields is a testament to her hard work, grit and dedication.

Polly’s story is a powerful reminder that success is not limited to one field or pursuit, and that it's possible to make a meaningful impact in multiple ways.