The 12-year-old B2R swimmer is competing in three events, with one holding particular importance.

She will contest the 100-metre freestyle and 100m individual medley at the two-day carnival.

However, it is her 100m breaststroke assignment which she is looking forward to most.

Grace said her new preferred event came via difficult circumstances.

"Last year my Nan was diagnosed with breast cancer," she said.

"Now I dedicate a swim to her."

The Warrnambool College student said the pain she felt during races was put into perspective when she thought of her grandmother, Beryl Clark.

"It motivates me to keep going," she said.

"She is really special."

When Beryl was receiving treatment in Geelong, Grace snuck her breaststroke swimming medals into her grandmother's toiletry bag as a show of support ? and motivation.

Beryl was recently given a good 12-month report.

Grace is hoping to add some more medals to the positive news.

"Hopefully I do some personal bests," she said.

"I just need to focus and be determined."

Grace heads into the championships with strong form. On Sunday she qualified for the state age swimming titles in the 200m breaststroke.

She was one second clear of the set 3 minutes and 11-second time bracket. Grace has already qualified in the 100m breaststroke and 100m individual medley for the event later this month.

B2R squad coach Chris Russell said he was taking the biggest group to this weekend's carnival in the club's short history.

Other swimmers competing include Aaron Skinner, Ashleigh Pettigrew, Caitlyn McKay, Jack Williams, Ben Raymond and Lainey Miller.

mrooth@standard.fair fax.com.au