Namibian swim sensation, Daniela Lindemeier is a dedicated and humble athlete working daily towards her dream for Rio Olympics 2016. With many accolades behind her name like Junior Sports Woman of the year 2010, multiple Namibian record holder and medalist who just recently took her country’s first medal at the African Games in Brazzaville, in Bronze for her breaststroke.
She comes across shy if you do not know her and is one who stands firm for what she believes in. A little bit of a perfectionist, but that usually goes with determination, self- discipline and ultimately success in life. She says about herself, “If I decide to do something I will give 100%. I am a Christian and always believe that at the end of the day you can only be the best you can be, give everything 100%, the rest is in God’s hands.
| Name & Surname | Daniela Lindemeier |
| Nick name | Dani |
| Date of Birth | 3 July 1992 |
| Place of Birth | Windhoek (Namibia) |
| Current City | Windhoek |
| Height | 1.59m |
| Weight | 53kg |
| Shoe size | 5 |
| Club | Namib Swim Academy |
| Coach’s | Ryan Skinner |
| Biokenetics and Gym coach | Stephan Ackerman |
| Out of Country events | Various World Championships
All Africa Games (2011 Maputo & 2015 Brazzaville) Under 21 Games Zone6, Cana Zone 3&4 |
| Favorite City | Hamburg |
| Favorite Song/type of music | No particular type – listen to all types of music |
| Favorite Movie / Series | One tree Hill & Pretty Little Liars |
INTERVIEW:
Q: You are passionate and doing so well in your swimming, tell me a little bit about how you started and your journey in the swimming arena up to now?
My mom took me to swimming lessons (water safety first) as a child as I always loved the water. When at the beach or any big bodies of water I used to run towards. My uncle used to be a swimmer from a young age I looked up to him and I would like to achieve what he has one day.
Q: What is the highest accolade you have received in swimming and what is your personal greatest accomplishment?
The Commonwealth Youth Games in 2008 (Pune) making two finals in the 100m and 200m breaststroke.
Personally having qualified for the World Championships in Russia, making the Fina B World Championship qualification times in the 100m and 200m breaststroke.
Q: Do you have any specific regimens or rituals?
I wouldn’t say dieting, eating healthy. The night before I race I love to have pasta.
At a meet from the point of getting out of the car I always have earphones in listening to music till I race. I am very quiet at meets I usually only talk to my mom or my coach.
Q: You have traveled outside Namibia before, where did you go and how did you experience it?
It’s always a great experience I always learn something new seeing big name international swimmers race, there’s always something to learn. Outside the swimming arena it’s always great to experience different cultures.
Q: How do you fit in both sports and academics into your schedule?
Right now I am not studying, taking a break/gap, proceeding in 2017. Right now in between training I am working as a Lean to swim coach.
Q: Besides your swimming what do you have passion for?
Animals, I especially love dogs. Seeing animals that are not being looked after is the worst to me. I try and help where I can. We have two dogs and a cat at home. The one dog who is mine I adopted her from the SPCA, she has the sweetest character.
Q: Tell me one thing about yourself that the world does not know about you?
I am terrified of dying by drowning.
Q: What do you do to relax?
Talking to friends, catching up. Watching series and shopping.
Q: What athlete inspires you?
Rebecca Soni – the first woman to ever go under 2min20sec for 200m breaststroke long course and wining Gold at the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games in the 200m breaststroke.
Q: What is your personal favorite quote?
“They can’t measure heart, Any of it, Heart, Want, Need. You cannot measure a Dream!”
Q: What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
Never give up. God wouldn’t put you in a position you cannot handle.
Q: What is your biggest challenge and what do u do to manage this challenge?
My biggest challenge would be mentally. Not to overthink stress before racing at a big meet. Staying positive and believing.
Q: When you had a tough day, what lifts you up again?
My dog always seems to be able to put a smile on my face.
Q: What is to be expected next from you?
I am taking part at the All African Games in Congo.
Thank you so much for taking this interview. We would like to wish you all the best for your journey ahead. Blessings!
