Poolside Passport – Hugo Gonzalez: Playing Hoops, Watching Harry Potter and Denying Desserts
Spain’s Hugo Gonzalez has been a factor on the international scene for more than a decade, first as a medalist at the World Junior Championships and later as an Olympian and medalist at the World Championships. Most recently, Gonzalez starred at the European Championships, where he earned the silver medal in the 200-meter individual medley, pushing champion Hubert Kos to the wall.
En route to a runnerup finish in the 200 IM in Paris, Gonzalez clocked a time of 1:54.44, an effort that made him the No. 6 performer in the history of the event. Gonzalez took time over the summer to participate in Swimming World’s Poolside Passport Series, which debuted on Swimming World’s social-media channels as the brainchild of Giulia Abreu Proviett Cury, who just completed a summer internship with SW and is set to bring her talents as a journalism intern.
Here is a look at Hugo Gonzalez’s Poolside Passport:
Dream Job
I’d follow my parents’ footsteps and become both a pilot and a sign language interpreter.
If You Weren’t a Swimmer, What Sport Would You Compete In?
I’d definitely play basketball.
Unpopular Opinion
Desserts are overrated. Sorry.
Food You Could Eat Every Day
Give me some of Madrid’s calamari and Valencia’s paella. My diet is set.
What Song Has Been on Repeat Lately?
Layla, by Eric Clapton.
Favorite Movie?
Harry Potter and Pirates of the Caribbean take the crown for me.
Favorite Place You’ve Visited Through Swimming
Budapest’s got a special meaning to me and among many core memories, I stepped on a major international podium for the first time.
Hobbies & Interests
I like learning about science of any kind but specially tech, software engineering and astronomy.
Fun Fact
Very Spanish-like. I hate spicy (food), enjoy early dinners, and barely know reggaeton music.
Who Would You Switch Lives With For a Day?
I’d switch with myself from years ago to guide me.
