Ashleigh, who has swum with the Sunbury Amateur Swimming Club for seven years, competed at the Australian Paralympic Youth Games in Melbourne in October.

She won six medals in various swimming competitions, including a bronze for the 50m backstroke and silvers for 50m freestyle, 50m breaststroke, 50m and 100m butterfly events.

Despite her medal count, Ashleigh is shy when it comes to talking about her swimming feats.

"I started [swimming] because of my [older] sister. She refused to get in the pool by herself and so I got in with her," Ashleigh recalls.

With a training schedule of five days a week at the pool, an interest in basketball - "just for fun" - and her studies, Ashleigh keeps very busy.

Being born with a shorter left arm is not a deterrent for her, her mother Lynda says. "She's really not affected; even if someone says anything, she simply does not bother.

"Ashleigh's friends are a great support, too, and are happy for her.

"Her personality is her strongest point; she has a real drive about everything.

"Her determination is inspirational, how she gets up and gets going."

Any typical teenage distractions?

"I keep hoping there would be something," Mrs McConnell said.

"Swimming is all there is, though it's been great for her and provides an important outlet."

About her future plans,

Ashleigh says: "I'd like to participate in the 2012 Paralympic Games in London."