GREENVILLE, N.C. (WITN) – As the 2024 Olympic Games kick off globally, North Carolina native Lauren Perdue Britt reflects on her 2012 victory.

Considered one of the fastest swimmers in the world, Perdue Britt spoke with WITN’s Celeste Ford, highlighting how growing up in Greenville contributed to her success.

“I was on the 4×200 freestyle relay. I swam in the preliminary morning heat of the relay, where I was the lead-off leg. My job was to get out in front of the competition as best as I could,” Perdue Britt said.

Her swimming career began with the Greenville Swim Club, now known as East Carolina Aquatics, on the East Carolina University campus. Perdue Britt credits her parents, faith, and Coach Casey Charles for her success.

“At 15 or 16, when she made her first Olympic trial cut, she was special and different. We had other talented swimmers, but Lauren stood out,” Charles said.

Perdue Britt describes making the 2012 Olympics as a miracle, having undergone back surgery just three months prior to the trials. Her most cherished memory remains winning the gold medal in the 4×200 freestyle relay.

“My favorite memory is winning my gold medal in the 4×200 freestyle relay. It’s incredibly special to me as my only gold, and I keep it very safe. It means the world to me,” Perdue Britt said.

This year, Perdue Britt will support Team USA from her home in Charlotte, watching with family and friends.