Lianne Saunders began competitive swimming when she was 9 years old on the recommendation of her doctor to help control her asthma. It became apparent at this young age that she had a natural aptitude for swimming and took top honors at her first Division II meet for all of Eastern Canada. Her swimming career took her to both the Nationals and a number of elite Canadian swim teams. Sever tendonitis in both shoulders cut short this spirited run, 3 months prior to the 1984 Olympic trials.

Lianne continued in the sport by coaching with the Ajax Aquatic Club and the Pacific Dolphins Swim Team after moving to Vancouver. She kept her competitive edge by swimming with the Masters group at the University of British Columbia. Now living in Port Alberni, Lianne continues to enjoy sharing her love for competitive swimming with her 4 daughters and the community at large with Tsunami Swim Club.