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Natasha Cornelius, brilliant and motivational young swimmer opens the year for us on a high note in style and in excellence.
Wise and grounded in her faith in Christ, she stands tall in what she believes in. She talks from the heart about being a twin alongside her swimming sis. She is a true inspiration for our younger athletes with her positive vibe. She has a caring heart for her team mates and loves giving back by engaging and making small children laugh.
She say about herself “I am daughter, sister, friend and cousin. I am a swimmer, hard worker, dedicated and passionate person. But most importantly, I am a child of God. I would like to see patience increased within myself as I grow into my future”.
Athlete: Bio / Stats |
|
| Name & Surname | Natasha Cornelius |
| Nick Name | Tash, Tasha or Natash |
| Date of birth | 8 November 2001 |
| Place of birth | Centurion |
| Current City | Pretoria |
| Height | 1,70 m |
| Weight | 60 kg |
| Shoe Size | 6 |
| Club | Pretoria Aquatic Club |
| Coach’s Name | Eugene da Ponte |
| Out of Country events | Golfinhos Sprint Gala |
| Secondary Sport | Hockey until end Gr9 |
| Favorite City | New York City |
| Favorite Song/ Type of music | My type – The Chainsmokers |
| Favorite Movie | The lucky one |
| School & Grade | Die Hoerskool Menlopark, grade 11 |
| Twitter/Instagram/Facebook | Instagram – Natasha.cor |
| Parents Names, siblings | Mom – Dalene
Dad – Richard Brother – Jean-Michael Sister – Chante |
INTERVIEW:
Q: You are passionate and doing so well in your Swimming tell me a little bit about how you started in Swimming and your journey in the Swimming arena up to now?
My parents sent us to learn how to swim when we were small. Being at Hatfield Christian School where swimming was one of their main sports, we swam for the school team. Throughout all of this, my talent for swimming was fully developed. Through swimming I learned a lot and not only about the sport, but also some valuable life lessons, such as “never to give up” “there are times that you need to push hard and then there is times to rely on your team” just to mention a few. I’ve achieved personal goals, which I’m proud of. And it has given me the opportunity to meet new people, which fit in with my love of people.
Q: You are part of a twin – how are you experiencing this in the swimming arena?
At first it was difficult to leave the rivalry at the pool and to not bring it home with us. Both of us are very competitive which makes it a real challenge at times. It was a challenge to be happy for my sister when I’m disappointed in myself and my own performance. It took time but eventually we learnt to be proud of each other. Sometimes one is just better on the day. That being said, I cannot be happier when my sister achieves one of her goals.
Q: Who are you?
I am daughter, sister, friend and cousin. I am a swimmer, hard worker, dedicated and passionate person. But most importantly, I am a child of God. I would like to see patience increased within myself as I grow into my future.
Q: What is the highest accolade that you have achieved in Swimming and what is your greatest personal accomplishment?
I have won a bronze medal at Jnr Nationals 2016 and have made a few semifinals at SA Short course in 2017. Made SA Schools team in 2017.
My greatest personal accomplishment would definitely have to be within the swimming arena. One of my greatest and proudest achievements was when I swam the 100m Freestyle in 59.80sec, – under 1 minute in the previous season.
Q: Besides your swimming what do you have a passion for?
I have a passion for small children and making them laugh. Music is another great love where I can lose myself.
Q: Tell me one thing about yourself that the world does not know 🙂 ?
I don’t eat butter or pepper ever.
Q: So, you are a brilliant swimmer and academic – but name 1 thing that you suck at 🙂
I suck at singing but I really wish I could sing though.
Q: Do you want share a little on your faith journey so far?
Christ died for me so I swim for him. I believe in a personal relationship with Jesus, listening to Christian music to inspire me and always trust in that inner voice of the Holy Spirit.
Q: What are you most grateful for in your life at the moment?
I am grateful for my family and the people my life. Those people that never gives up on me.
Q: In your opinion, how do you define success in life?
Success to me is when someone achieves a goal no matter the size of it. It is when they feel they have accomplished something. A successful person is someone who never gives up on their will to get to a goal or achieve something and then living that dream of purpose.
Q: What’s your WHY ?
I love swimming because of the talent God has given me. It is a part of me and I don’t think I can live without it. I’d like to be an example to younger children to never give up on your dreams and talents. Always work hard and believe in yourself. They must understand my morals as well as my commitment to everything I do in life. In everything, be excellent, not just average. I do everything to please God because he is the reason that I live. My team mates have become like a second family to me as I spend a lot of time with them. They understand me and go through the pain with me. I love the burn after a good set.
Q: Anything else you would like to share?
Do everything to the best of your ability because the things we take for granted other people are praying for. The only difference between try and triumph is a little umph.
Thank you so much for taking this interview. We would like to wish you all the best for your journey ahead. We look forward to following you as you go from strength to strength. Blessings!
