Paul Uncles

I began competitive swimming as a teenager with Killarney Swim Club in Vancouver. The club was very small, but we had a lucky break when one of the parents brought in recently retired Howard Firby to provide us with professional coaching. Firby, who literally wrote the book on swimming

mechanics, helped me a great deal with the development of my breaststroke. After some success as a 16-year-old, moving up to age group and having to compete against the likes of Ralph Hutton proved too daunting a challenge, and I decided to pursue other activities.

Fast forward to age 55, and after playing soccer for many years, I needed a sport that was more forgiving on my joints. I joined the Delta Retreads Masters Club, and the following year, I was back to competing and loving it! After a family move to South Surrey, I became a member of Semiahmoo Masters and, when it folded, the White Rock Wave.

I enjoy competing in local, national and representing Canada in international swim meets. My inspiration to succeed really comes down to being surrounded by amazing coaches and teammates, and the desire to 'Be Like Betty'!"

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From the Wave Board

Paul's latest competition brought him to the 2025 World Masters Championships in Singapore! He is truly an inspiration to our team as a competitor and teammate. Most recently, he undertook the monumental task of organizing our Team Records.