Gay swimmer Martin Cremin: ‘Sexuality was never an issue’

Scottish swimmer Martin Cremin has spoken out about his sexuality, saying that being gay “made absolutely no difference” to his career.

The 22-year-old – who recently competed at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games – said that the swimming community is “very supportive” and “inclusive”.

Speaking to KaleidoScot, he said: “I really wanted to talk out to end any perception that as a gay person you can’t participate in sport. Being gay has made absolutely no difference to my career as a swimmer at all.

“If I had a message to young swimmers just starting out who might be gay, I’d say it really doesn’t matter. The experience I had was very positive – never any homophobia or prejudice. It’s a very supportive, inclusive community, and for me being gay and a swimmer have never been an issue.”

“I just hope someone might feel easier about taking part in sport after seeing that I’ve had a really good experience – that would be great,” he added.

I’ve officially outed myself. Read my interview in @KaleidoScot here: http://t.co/rH1o8lystM pic.twitter.com/H5lJXnvKqg

— Martin Cremin (@MartinCrem) September 4, 2014

Asked about the media attention surrounding Tom Daley and Ian Thorpe’s coming out stories, Cremin said that “nobody should be forced” into becoming a role model.

“I’m sure lots of people will have been inspired by them as gay sportsmen, but for me it just shouldn’t be an issue.”

Cremin was also asked how he felt about being included in Attitude‘s Commonwealth Hotties series this summer – take a look at some of his hottest pictures here.

He replied: “It was a bit of a surprise to be honest, but nice I guess. I don’t ever Google myself, I don’t read what people say too often about me – I don’t really care that much!”

Cremin recently announced his retirement from swimming, and now intends to pursue a career as a police officer.