When Nancy O'Brien MacKinnon is teaching the next generation of swimmers, she uses herself as an example of one of the biggest points she tries to impress on them: Swimming is a lifelong sport, both for fitness and competition.

“I say, 'Look at me. I'm still doing it.'” At 59, the retired Verizon worker and former private chef is doing a lot these days, from painting artwork, to managing a gallery, to being a lifeguard, and taking on her new job as head coach of the Boothbay Region YMCA's Dolphins swim team.

With members ranging in age from 6 to 18, the team takes part in two swimming leagues. The program emphasizes personal development.

Participants will have the benefit of MacKinnon's considerable background in swimming. Among her accomplishments, she has held Maine and New England top-10 records for her swimming times in individual events, and was part of a Maine team that set a national record. The Seekonk, Mass., native belongs to Maine Masters, a sanctioning body for swimming competitions.

But beyond helping team members explore the competitive side of swimming, MacKinnon hopes to also impart an enjoyment of the physical activity itself. “Swimming is very relaxing,” she said. She loves the feeling of streamlining off of the pool wall.

The mother of two grown sons used to be an assistant coach for the Wiscasset Unsinkables swim team. Working with young people keeps her young, she said.

“Kids take to things a lot quicker,” she said. “They're less fearful. They learn very quickly. It's amazing.”

MacKinnon and husband Ross MacKinnon moved to New Harbor from Woburn, Mass. The family had vacationed in Boothbay, “so we knew the area was beautiful. And we wanted desperately to get out of the city, to a more friendly atmosphere, a community-type atmosphere,” she said.

After retiring early from sales and management at Verizon, she graduated from culinary arts school and worked as a private chef. MacKinnon is also a painter, using acrylics on canvas, and this summer she's been managing the gallery at Pemaquid Lighthouse Park.

“I've been able to pursue my life's passions,” she said. “I've been very blessed.”

MacKinnon and the Y's aquatics director, Shane Pennington, encourage both new and experienced swimmers to join the Dolphins. “We want people to come and enjoy the sport, and have a good time,” Pennington said.

For more information regarding the swim team, call the Y at 633-2855.