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Catching up with our Olympians: Shireen Sapiro

June 4, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

Today I am celebrating Shireen Sapiron, one of SA’s and Africa’s great swimming legends, a 2 x Paralympian, and just freshly qualified in her 3^rd for Rio Paralympics in September 2016. She is a great inspiration not only in the sports arena, but in life, a true overcomer after an accident that almost destroyed her. She rose all the way to the top despite these challenges and is a humble and deeply grateful athlete with great faith in God and a passionate love for life.

She says – “I just want to inspire others to be the best version of themselves. I want people to know that you can achieve anything you set your mind to. I want everyone to know that they are worthy”. Her challenge to our youth is this – “I want to inspire and motivate the youth to be around people who are positive and inspire them to become happy, healthy and productive people in society. I want them you surround themselves with positive people and I know they can achieve that by being involved in sport”.

Athlete: Bio / Stats
Name & Surname	Shireen Sapiro
Nick Name	Fuddy or Fuddie
Date of birth	25/01/1991
Place of birth	Krugersdorp
Current City	Durban
Height	1.62
Weight	60kg
Shoe Size	6
Club	Seagulls Swimming Club
Coach’s Name	Graham Hill and Delon Dannhauser
Out of Country events/ meets (most recent)	IPC Swimming World Championships : 2006, 2010,2014 Maccabiah Games: 2009,2014 Paralympic Games: 2008, 2012
Favorite City	Tel Aviv, Israel
Favorite Song/ type of music	Nothing in specific. I enjoy all different types of music.
Favorite Movie	Without a paddle and White Chicks
Tertiary Inst Name/ Year	University of Johannesburg
Tertiary degree/ diploma	BA Journalism
Sponsors	None at the moment
Twitter and Instagram names, facebook name	Facebook: Shireen Sapiro Twitter: @shireensapiro Instagram: shireensapiro

Community projects involved in	Maccabiah South Africa
Parents Names, siblings	Michael and Red Sapiro(mom and dad), Jason Sapiro(brother).

Shireen Shapiro wins Bronze in the 100m backstroke final… Day 6 of the London 2012 Paralympics.
PHOTO HERMAN VERWEY MEDIA24

INTERVIEW:

Q: Firstly congrats on qualifying for Rio! You are one of SA’s top female athletes, an Olympic gold medalist, admired by many, 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?

I started swimming when I was 9 years old. At the time I had my hopes and dreams set on becoming an Olympic gymnast. All of my time and energy was devoted to gymnastics. My best friend at the time was very much into swimming and asked me to join her at swimming maybe once or twice a week so that we get more time to play together after school. I agreed and I started swimming. At our first school gala I beat everyone in all the events. I then realized that swimming was something I wanted to take more seriously. As time passed gymnastics started to fade away as swimming became my main focus. I knew that I wanted to become an Olympic swimmer.

In 2004 at age 13, I was involved in a serious boating accident on the Vaal Dam, which left me fighting for my life. Doctors told my parents that I would not see the light of another day, and if I did, I would never be able to walk again. By the grace of God I survived and spent a total of 5 months flat on my back in the hospital. The propeller of the boat had ripped my body in two leaving me with severe damage to the left side of my body. I spent 2 years in rehabilitation teaching myself to walk and swim again because now only one half of my body was functioning properly.

My first gala after my accident was a complete disaster. People I use to beat were now beating me. I was devastated but I knew that giving up on my dream was not an option. My physio at the rehabilitation center suggested that I try competing as a disabled athlete. I was completely against it because I did not see myself as a disable person. After many tears my mom finally convinced me to swim a race in the disable category. I swam the 50m freestyle and smashed the SA record. I think that was the moment where my dreams changed from becoming an Olympian to a Paralympian. In 2008 I competed at my first Paralympic Games where I won a gold medal and broke the World record, I won a bronze medal at the London 2012 Paralympics and have recently qualified for my third games in Rio.

Q: Who are you?

I am a very relaxed “go with the flow” type of girl. I like to think that I am kind and enjoying giving a helping hand wherever I can. I also enjoy seeing others happy and successful. I am honest and reliable. I also think that I am a good friend.

In the future I would like to become more patient. I get really irritated when things don’t go my way.

Q: Why do you have such deep seated respect for your coach?

I have respect for my amazing coaches because of how hard working they are. They want their swimmers to be successful. I respect them because swimming is their passion and I know that they have my best interests at heart. I fully trust my coaches to get me where I need to be.

Q: Explain your career, and how do you balance it with being a professional swimmer?

I am currently a full time student and a professional athlete. I have taken a break from studies this year to focus on the games and will continue next year. Balancing your training and studies is all about time management and discipline.

Q: Would you like to share a little bit more about your faith journey and how it has affected your life / sports?

I grew up in a Jewish home and I believe that God presents everyone in the world with opportunities. We just need to be brave enough to take them. God has given me the strength to become the person and athlete I am today.

Q: What do you do to relax?

I enjoy going to the beach. I was born to be in the water so swimming in the ocean definitely relaxes me. I actually enjoy doing all types of outdoors actives like riding bikes and hiking. I also love going to the movies and spending time with my family and friends.

Q: What is your personal favourite motivational quote?

I have so many but one that stands out for me the most is,

“Get comfortable being uncomfortable. Get confident being uncertain. Don’t give up just because something is hard. Pushing through challenges is what makes you grow”.

Q: You have an amazing testimony of your accident, do you want to share a little?

My accident was only a true blessing in my life. I have met the most wonderful people and experienced things that take my breath away. My accident has humbled me and played a huge roll in shaping me into the person I am today. Even though I have parts of my body that don’t function like normal persons would, I am happy. I have enormous scars but I am extremely proud of them. If I could turn back the hands of time, I wouldn’t change a single thing.

Q: What is your definition of greatness?

My definition of greatness is nothing but pure happiness. I believe that if you are happy with what you are doing in life then you have achieved greatness. Whether it is becoming a mother, landing your dream job or even having completed a race. Everyone can achieve greatness in some or other way.

Q: What’s your WHY ?

I do what I do because it makes me happy. Swimming is my passion and it gives me purpose. I enjoy pushing my body to become the best I possibly can be. I do what I do because I get to be around wonderful, positive and uplifting people. I do what I do because I know it is a healthy environment to be in.

Q: One thing about Shireen that the world does not know 🙂

I can actually sing really well. As a young girl I always wanted to become a theatrical performer. I wanted to sing and dance like the people in the musical, Cats.

Shireen Shapiro wins Bronze in the 100m backstroke final… Day 6 of the London 2012 Paralympic.
PHOTO HERMAN VERWEY MEDIA24

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!

THANK YOU!!! 🙂

Photo Credits: HERMAN VERWEY MEDIA24

NB – All images were supplied by the athlete to Heslop Sports. If there are any images that are not credited correctly, please email info@heslopsports.co.za with the details and we will gladly do so immediately.

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Catching up with our Olympians: Matthew Mark Meyer

June 2, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

This young 18 year old Olympian and matric student from Clifton College is a man of focus, much wisdom for his youth and has so many interesting facets. He qualified for the Rio Olympics for the 1500m freestyle, amidst the nausea, pain and burn that confirmed his sure victory. He speaks with deep gratefulness for the brilliant guidance and support of his Coach Alisdair Hatfield, his dear ones in his life and says “One day, if I could say I turned out to be half the man Alisdair is then I would be proud of who I have become”. Matthew is such a mature and inspirational youth that will do SA proud, come this Rio Olympics.

When asked about himself he said “Well to be honest I’m some sort of a strange blend of a person really. I’m somewhere between an introvert and an extrovert but if you get to know me I think the extrovert may come out. I love to stay active, I can’t sit still at all and wherever I go there has to be something physical that I can do. Often that isn’t too much of a problem as I have to swim no matter where I go but if by some strange reason I don’t, then I will find something to do. Loyalty, it’s a quality I have prided myself on for many years and I feel that it is always the starting block when journeying to be the person you truly want to be”.

Matthew Meyer

Photo Credits: Brian-Spurr-Photography

Athlete: Bio / Stats
*Name & Surname*	Matthew Mark Meyer
*Nick Name*	Matt
*Date of birth*	4 March 1998
*Place of birth*	Durban (Parklands Hospital)
*Current City*	Durban South Africa
*Height*	185cm
*Weight*	70kgs
*Shoe Size*	10/11
*Club*	Action Swim Academy
*Coach’s Name*	Alisdair Hatfield
*Out of Country events*	Singapore Junior World Swimming Championship
*Favorite City*	Cape Town
*Favorite Song/ type of music*	I won’t go home without you by Maroon 5
*Favorite Movie*	Tarzan (Animation)
*Highschool*	Clifton College
*Grade*	12
*Sponsors*	Speedo
*Twitter and Instagram names, facebook name*	Instagram; matthewmeyer_ Facebook; Matthew Meyer
*Parents Names, siblings*	Charles Meyer – Father \| Wendy Meyer – Mother \| Tracy-Lea Meyer – Sister \|

INTERVIEW:

Q: You have just realized a lifelong dream to qualify for the Rio Olympics. Wow and well done. What is on your heart and mind right now concerning this qualification?

Thank-you so much! For the first few days it was really just a matter of trying to soak it all in. It was hard to believe that I had finally accomplished a lifelong dream. It has been a goal of mine for some years now. After I started to realize what I had done I, at the same time, knew I had to get back into the pool and train harder than ever as there are bigger goals still to come.

Q: Respecting and being grateful for the journey that you, your parents and coaches have been on till now. Also for the benefit and encouragement of young and up-coming little dreamers that see you as a hero – how was your swimming performances at about age 13/14? What was your regime like at that age?

It’s been a long journey for us all however; I only really believe that we’ve reached a halfway point. I have been in the sport for 10 years straight with no breaks in between and am hoping to reach my 10 thousand hours in the pool soon as I feel this is the point where I’ll be at my peak. At the age of 13/14 I was really just trying to reach one goal, breaking my first age group record. I was unsuccessful until the age of 15 where a broke records on 5 different occasions throughout the year. The main aim of those years from my coach’s perspective was just getting the mileage and hard training in to set me up for the future.

Q: Why do you have such deep seated respect for your coach?

Alisdair is my life mentor, be it swimming, academics or life in general. He has helped me through a lot of ups and downs in my life and never lost faith in me throughout the journey so far. Alisdair is integral, honest and an inspiration to me.

Matthew Meyer

Photo Credits: Brian-Spurr-Photography

Q: Would you like to share a little bit more about your faith journey and how it has affected your life / sports?

My faith ensures a safe, healthy and happy day to day life for my family and those who are dear to me. I am eternally grateful for all I have and all I am.

Q: Beside swimming, what else do you have a passion for?

My family and girlfriend. For me there is nothing better than a weekend consisting of a family lunch, a day well spent with my girlfriend and possibly a mornings worth of fishing with my dad. This refreshes my mind every week and reminds me how lucky I am outside of the pool. It’s amazing to know I have the undying support of these people and really makes me strive to achieve to the best of my ability.

Q: What is your personal favourite motivational quote?

Do what you love and love what you do!!

Q: What was your biggest challenge leading up to Olympic Qualifiers, and how did you manage that challenge?

It was a matter of controlling my nerves. I tend to get quite nervous for some of my bigger races and it doesn’t help me in the pool unless I control it.

Q: In your opinion, how do you define greatness in life?

Doing what you love and being successful at it. The two go hand in hand, if you love what you do then you will be good at it. Stay passionate, positive and hardworking but most of all be the person you have always dreamed of being.

Q: What’s your WHY ?

I do what I do because I love it. My path in swimming and academics is what it is because of hard work and dedication. My message to the youth is that nothing in life comes easy and unless you are willing to sacrifice and commit, then your dreams will forever remain a dream.

Q: One thing about Matthew that the world does not know ☺

I love to listen to music from the Tarzan Animation before I race.

Q: Favourite meal?

Well this is a difficult one. My mom is an amazing cook and I really can’t pinpoint my favored dish what I do know is that they all belong to her. My favorites would be the Monday night breyani, lamb roast on weekends, prawn pasta on a special occasion as well as my dad’s specialty ribs. People wonder how I stay slim and to be honest I don’t know either…

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!

Brian Spurr Contact Details:

Facebook: Brian-Spurr-Photography

Cell: 082 553 2029

E:mail: brian.spurr@gmail.com

Home Interviews Olympics 2016 Rio Sports Swimming

Catching up with our Olympians: Douglas Erasmus

May 29, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

Connecting with Doug Erasmus gave me so much hope again in the fact that dreams really do come true. He started swimming at the age of 15, much later than many swimmers these days, but immediately excelled and went from strength to strength in his swimming career. I admire his inborn resilience and firm and resolute belief that hard work has to pay off – and for him it did beautifully in in Olympic qualification.

Doug is not just brilliant in swimming but an outstanding academic also, who is currently busy with his post graduate B.Com Honours Degree. He says this – “Success is a long journey, and I am someone who will do what it takes to achieve something. I am dedicated and am always willing to give my best in any situation. I would like others to see me as a dedicated hard working athlete, which will show them that hard work and sacrifices will always pay off”.

Athlete: Bio / Stats
Name & Surname	Douglas Erasmus
Nick Name	Doug
Date of birth	1990/04/04
Place of birth	Benoni, South Africa
Current City	Pretoria
Height	182cm
Weight	78kg
Shoe Size	9
Club	Tuks Aquatics
Coach’s Name	Igor Omeltchenko
Out of Country events/ meets (most recent)	World Student Games 2015 Fina World Cup – Doha & Dubai, Amsterdam cup December 2015
Favorite City	Cape town
Favorite Song/ type of music	No particular
Favorite Movie	No Particular
Tertiary Inst Name/ Year	University Of Pretoria
Tertiary degree/ diploma	B.Com (Honours) Marketing Management
Sponsors	Speedo SA, HPC, Futurelife
Twitter and Instagram names, facebook name	Twitter: @Doug_E4, Instagram: Dougerasmus FaceBook: Doug Erasmus
Parents Names, siblings	Cheryl Knight (mother) Graham Erasmus(father) Jennifer Sterly(sister)

INTERVIEW:

Q: You have just realized a lifelong dream to qualify for the Rio Olympics. Wow and well done. What is on your heart and mind right now concerning this qualification?

It has always been something I have been working for, but also something that was up in the clouds, which quickly became a reality. Knowing that all the hard work and sacrifices has paid off puts me on cloud nine. Over the moon with the Qualifying time.

Q: Respecting and being grateful for the journey that you, your parents and coaches have been on till now. Also for the benefit and encouragement of young and up-coming little dreamers that see you as a hero – how was your swimming performances at round about 13 years old? What was your regime like at that age?

I only started swimming competitively at the age of 15. I always looked up to the faster swimmers, not only internationally, but also with in my club. This motivated me and encouraged me to push harder. I qualified for level 3 at my very first Gala, which is something very unlikely.

Q: Beside swimming, what else do you have a passion for?

I see swimming as a full time Job. I am intrigued as to how the rest of the world is swimming, and constantly reading and learning more about the sport and myself to improve more. Other than that I do enjoy other sports, such as Rugby, tennis etc and socializing with friends.

Q: What is your personal favourite motivational quote?

“We can have more than what we’ve got, because we can become more than what we are” – Jim Rohn

Q: When an athlete hits some “hard / difficult” patch in their sports career, what goes through your mind at that time? What advice can you give other young athletes in this regard?

As anyone would say, don’t give up. Hard patches may make you want to give up, but if you push through them it will make you better. Focusing on other aspects of your training to keep you going will be beneficial. (stroke- Technique)

Q: In your opinion, how do you define greatness in life?

Greatness in life comes down to what you are willing to do to reach the best you possibly can be. If you know that you gave everything you could to get where you are, you have succeeded.

Q: What’s your WHY ? Why do you do what you do?

Swimming is something I love, and I did not give up on it. That’s what keeps me going, the will to succeed. I hope to have a positive influence and encourage the up and comers to believe in them selfs and don’t give up on something they love. I would like to set the example of hard work and dedication, as well as belief that if you want something to work, you will find away.

Q: One thing about Doug that the world does not know J

I Played Provincial Squash as a kid.

Q: Favourite meal?

So many. But most probably between a good pasta dish or braai.

Power Start

Interview with special Olympic mom – Cheryl Ann Johnson Knight, his mom – http://heslopsports.co.za/wp/olympicmomsdoug/

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!

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Catching up with our Olympians: Calvyn Justus

May 25, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

Catching up with Olympian Calvyn Justus was just so inspirational. Vlogger to Blogger I deeply admire his well seasoned and always in season work as a photographer and videographer, that he so brilliantly combines with the biggest love of his life – his swimming. I love it when our athletes create this synergy between their sport and either academics or another passions in life. Thus ensuring that they never fall out of options.

As always with Calvyn the elements of turning everything that he puts his hand to into a fun filled journey is what keeps his many fans coming for more!

He has this to say in answer to the question ‘who are you?’ – “Who I am now, who I was last month or who I will be next month is completely different, I feel like I’m at that age where I’m busy finding myself and growing into the man I want to be. I’m growing a strong passion for content creation in the form of photography and videography and of course the swimming passion has stuck through all these years, but I can’t say for sure who I will be in a few years from now all I can say is that I would love to see a more goal driven, adventurous, spontaneous, motivated and fearless version of myself”.

Below -Calvyn by – Brian Spurr Photography

Calvyn Justus

Athlete: Bio / Stats
Name & Surname	Calvyn Justus
Nick Name	Vyn J
Date of birth	14 December 1995
Place of birth	Benoni, Johannesburg
Current City	Durban
Height	1.97m
Weight	78Kgs
Shoe Size	UK 11
Club	Seagulls swimming club
Coach’s Name	Graham Hill
Out of Country meets (most recent)	Amsterdam swim cup (December)
Favorite City	New York City
Favorite Song/ Type of music	A band called 21 pilots
Favorite Movie	The Intern with Anne Hathaway and Robert Deniro
Tertiary Inst Name/ Year	Westville boys high school
Sponsors	Arena swim wear & Nutritech supplements
Twitter and Instagram	Twitter & Instagram – @Calvynjustus
Web site	www.calvynjustus.com
Parents Names, siblings	George Justus (father), Kayleen and Shish (sisters)

INTERVIEW:

Q: You have just realized a lifelong dream to qualify for the Rio Olympics. Wow and well done. What is on your heart and mind right now concerning this qualification?

Thank you very much! Honestly it’s still not sunk in, I’ve spent my entire swimming life dreaming of making this team and now to have finally realized that goal is quite surreal, the support and love from my friends, family and supporters has been overwhelming and I’m incredibly excited for what lies ahead!

Starting swimming at the age of 9, now nearly 12 years later, it’s been a long and strenuous path, not just for me but for everyone around me involved in helping me achieve this dream. Especially my father who in the earlier years leading right up till I got my own car, had to wake up at around 4 A.M. with me to take me to training and wait whilst I swum for 2 hours. That’s something I’m eternally grateful for because without support like that I would have never been able to do this. To the young kids in similar positions I think it’s important to realize how much our parents and coaches do for us during those years!

Q: Beside swimming, what else do you have a passion for?

When I’m not swimming I love creating, I love taking photographs and creating videos, most of which I upload to my YouTube channel “Calvyn Justus” it’s a fast growing passion of mine that includes a large part of my swimming life as well. I’m having a lot of fun combining the two worlds and am very grateful to all the people supporting my journey in doing so.

Q: What is your personal favourite motivational quote?

There’s a couple I like but one that’s stuck this past year is: “stay hungry, stay foolish” – Steve jobs. I interpret it as stay hungry for your goals, stay driven and stay motivated. I understand the “stay foolish” part as be seen as foolish to the rest of the world, chase dreams so big that people will think you’re foolish or crazy to do so!

Q: When an athlete hits some “hard / difficult” patch in their sports career, what goes through your mind at that time? What advice can you give other young athletes in this regard?

There’s only ever two thoughts when you hit a rough patch and it’s the fight or flight reaction. You either want to fight harder, it motivates you and makes you more driven to succeed or it breaks you down, makes you want to give up or move on. I was unfortunate to have missed the world championship team to Russia last year; I used that as a fight reaction and used it to motivate myself to make the Olympic team this year. If you want it bad enough, the fight reaction will always be your first.

Q: In your opinion, how do you define greatness in life?

I define greatness as:

a). Setting a goal for yourself and achieving said goal.

b). Achieving what others said you couldn’t and

c). Striving to achieve what others can’t.

Q: What’s your WHY ? Why do you do what you do?

I guess I do what I do because I have goals and dreams of doing big things and being on top of the world and the things I’m doing in my life at the moment, swimming/photos/videos – are the paths I want to take to get there! If I’m to be seen as an influencer and have the youth look up to me id want it to be for chasing your dreams and not being afraid to do so, not giving up and staying determined. Most importantly, not being scared to be different!

Q: One thing about Calvyn that the world does not know 🙂

I’m a huge fan of the TV series ‘New Girl’ it’s my favorite!

Q: Favourite meal?

500g steak and chips or large double quarter pounder meal with 20 chicken nuggets from McDonalds!

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!

Home Interviews Olympics 2016 Rio Proudly South African Sports Swimming

Catching up with our Olympians: Myles Brown

May 14, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

Devon Myles Brown, has just fulfilled a lifelong dream and qualified for the Rio Olympics 2016 at Kings Park Pool in Durban last month. Since he made headlines last year by breaking SA’s longest standing record (Ryk’s) in the 400m freestyle, he has gone from strength to strength and he just keeps on raising the bar, on excellence and hard work. And this not only in the sports arena, but also in his wisdom, humility and balanced approach to life. This comes out to poignantly in the up close interview below.

He realised his ultimate Olympic dream, against all odds and despite the fact that in physique as a youth he was always the smallest. All I can say is – “You cannot measure heart.”

Heartfelt congratulations to this noble Olympian, his ENTIRE support team on the journey to the top – proud Parents, coaches Graham Hill and Delon Dannhauser, sponsors Arena, his love Tess Williams and Club Seagulls. Myles, we wish you all the very best on your last stretch of the Road to Rio. May your hard work pay of richly as to fly the SA flag high on the world’s largest sporting area in August 2016 in Brazil.

Myles Olympic Trials

Photo Credits: Brian-Spurr-Photography

Q: Firstly congrats on qualifying for Rio! You have just realized a lifelong dream! Wow and well done. What is on your heart and mind right now concerning this qualification?

Thank you very much! I think when I first saw that I had qualified it was just a major relief to be honest. Having just missed out in 2012, it was tough for me, but I know anything can happen at the trials and obviously there is added pressure seeing as it is an Olympic year. But now that things have settled, I’m really happy to have taken that first step towards making my childhood dream come true. Its pretty cool.

Q: What was your biggest challenge leading up to Olympic Qualifiers, and how did you manage that challenge?

I suppose just staying focused and not letting the pressure of the event get the better of me. I had swum the qualifying time numerous times leading up to the event, so it was important not to be complacent and over confident and just stay level headed and focused on what needed to be done.

Q: Respecting and being grateful for the journey that you, your parents and coaches have been on till now. Also for the benefit and encouragement of young and up-coming little dreamers that see you as a HERO 🙂 – how was your swimming performances in early youth? What was your regime like at that ages?

I’m obviously extremely grateful to my support system and without them none of this would ever be possible. I think its vital to find the right people to surround yourself with because its those people that are going to help you the most in your times of need and hardship. I was a very small kid at age 13/14, it was a major issue for me as everyone I raced was always so much bigger and stronger than me… I thought I would never grow. I stuck to my strengths, which was my endurance, so I focused on the longer distance races and open water, even though I never won, I was a lot more competitive and that kept my interest in swimming alive. I loved my swimming but I made sure I kept my other interests like rugby, water polo, and tennis. I think that was important although a couple years later I did need to start focusing on fewer sports even though I continued to play water polo until matric. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket and do what you love, I loved my swimming but it was tough always being the smallest, I had to work even harder than anyone else and that put my in good stead when I did eventually grow!!

Myles Brown

Photo Credits: Brian-Spurr-Photography

Q: Why do you have such deep seated respect for your coaches?

Well doing the things we do, we spend so much time with our coaches. They are there to help you get better everyday and they have been around a lot longer and know way more than you do. So its important to trust in your coaches, listen to them and ensure that you always give 100%. My coaches have elevated my swimming and helped me become the swimmer I am today and I am always grateful for the sacrifices they also make to make me a better swimmer everyday.

Q: In your opinion, how do you define greatness / success in life?

I think it’s not always about winning trophies and being the best but being the best that you can be. Always aim to be the best but as long as you are doing all that you can do and you are giving your all, you will be successful. Its about staying humble in victory and gracious in defeat, saying nothing when you lose and saying less when you win.

Q: What is your message of encouragement to our nation / youth?

We have an amazing nation with beautiful lands and beautiful people, be proud to be called a South African. We have faced so many hardships and always come through them better, which I feel is our greatest strength as a nation. Always give your best, work hard and take pride in what you do and who you are.

Further Reading on Myles:

http://heslopsports.co.za/wp/upclose-with-mylesbrown/

http://heslopsports.co.za/wp/myles-brown-stats/

http://heslopsports.co.za/wp/report-back-myles-brown/

Photo Credits: Bryan Spurr Photography

Facebook: Brian-Spurr-Photography

Cell: 082 553 2029

E:mail: brian.spurr@gmail.com

Home Interviews Olympics 2016 Rio Sports Swimming

Up-Close with Emily Gray

May 11, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

Swimmer and academic, Emily Gray is well respected and much admired by many athletes all over. She is a multiple Paralympian and if she gets selected for Rio, this will be her third Olympics. Emily has a deep desire for excellence and has always set high standards for herself since she lost her leg at the age of 12, competing with and doing brilliantly with able and disabled bodied athletes.

She has a special heart for young female athletes, especially disable girls. She has a sound and wise perception that success is fluctuating journey, and not a steep upward curve! She says “I like to think I am humble and an inspiration to others while being caring and considerate. I would like to become a thought leader in the area of disabilities”. She is proudly coached by Emile de Bruin.

Athlete: Bio / Stats
Name & Surname	Emily Gray
Nick Name	Ems
Date of birth	23 August 1991
Place of birth	Johannesburg
Current City	Pretoria
Height	165cm
Weight	65kg
Shoe Size	8
Club	TuksSwimming
Coach’s Name	Emile du Bruin
Out of Country events	IPC World Championships 2014 Glasgow
Favorite City	New York City
Favorite Song/ type of music	I love the old school classics like Led Zeppelin and the Beatles as well as some of the newer stuff
Favorite Movie	Zoolander
Tertiary Inst Name/ Year	University of Pretoria 2015
Tertiary degree/ diploma	Degree in Sport Science
Sponsors	High Performance Center, Speedo, FutureLife
Twitter and Instagram, Facebook	Twitter & Instagram : @EmilyGraySA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGrayPage/
Parents Names, siblings	Robert & Lesley Gray 3 sisters: Lucinda, Fern & Victoria

INTERVIEW:

Q: You have just realized a wonderful dream yet again, being a celebrated Olympian already, to qualify for the Rio Olympics. Wow and well done. What is on your heart and mind right now concerning this qualification?

I am very excited to have reached 2 qualifying times for my 3^rd Paralympic games. I feel like I have gained so much experience throughout the years I know just what to expect. However, the Paralympic team still has to be announced as South Africa have only been allocated a total of 6 slots for men and women. I am not sure as to when the team will be officially announced so in the mean time I am staying focused and training hard and hoping that I will be selected for the final team!

I had had my leg amputated at 12 years old and shortly began swimming after that as a form of rehabilitation. At about 14 was when I really started to pick up the training (8 sessions per week)

Q: Who are you? Describe yourself as a person.

I like to think I am humble and an inspiration to others while being caring and considerate. I would like to become a thought leader in the area of disabilities.

Q: Beside swimming, what else do you have a passion for?

I would like to eventually become a doctor one day. I also would like to be seen as an ambassador for amputees worldwide while discovering new local cafes , markets , photography and of course being around my friends and family

Q: What is your personal favourite motivational quote?

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go…” ― Dr. Seuss,

Q: When an athlete hits some “hard / difficult” patch in their sports career, what goes through your mind at that time? What advice can you give other young athletes in this regard?

Every signal athlete will stagnate in performance at various points in their career and it is very important to understand that success is not a straight upward line but will rather fluctuate. And it is critical that athletes’ don’t become too hard on themselves when this happens. Success is a process and we need to enjoy this process otherwise there is no point in taking part really. I have had to deal with many failures in my career but because I understand that it is a long term process and nothing is ever detrimental I am able to pick myself back up and make sure I take a valuable lesson from my failure.

Q: In your opinion, how do you define greatness in life?

Greatness for me is being truly happy in every aspect of your life. Physically, emotionally and mentally.

Q: What’s your WHY ? Why do you do what you do?

For me swimming was a tool I used to break away from my disability. I felt so bound by my crutches after my amputation and the water essentially gave me the freedom of movement I so deeply wanted back. Then once I had adapted to the water I wanted to be seen and treated just like everyone else. So I began training harder and harder so I could eventually keep up with the abled bodied swimmers. Now I swim because I want to become the best possible version of myself.

Q: Also, looking into the future, what type of influence do you see yourself having on our nation’s and continent’s youth? What example would you like to set for the one’s coming after you?

I would love to inspire the next generation of swimmers, especially the disabled girls. Swimming is an extremely tough sport, there is very little to no money and few support systems in place. There will be an innumerable amount of sacrifices you will have to make, but in the long run it’s well worth it.

Q: One thing about Emily that the world does not know J

I make some killer French toast

Q: Favourite meal?

I once had a lobster roll in NYC and it was out of this world! I also love dumplings’ J

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!

Home Sports Swimming

Memoirs of an Olympic Mom : Team Doug Erasmus

May 2, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

Cheryl Ann Johnson Knight, mom of Olympian Doug Erasmus totally gripped my attention with her Facebook entry about their journey to reach a dream. Her cup clearly overflows, wave after wave with gratefulness towards EACH AND EVERY PERSON on their Olympic Journey to the top. Yes mommy, you were there to pick him back up in times of disappointment and hurt. You were there to celebrate his precious victories. You were there to teach him the big and small lessons in life, lessons in character, in determination, in commitment and in love, these all add up to define a champion.

16 April at 23:46 ·

“I have just got off the Roller Coaster, attending our 11th Nationals as “Team Doug” this has to be one of the most emotionally draining weeks of all time. I have sat and watched with a smile how the newbie’s to nationals have come up to Doug and got their cards signed by him and to do the task that they were given – get a hug from him, do a face swop with him (selfies are now apparently outdated) and the memory of 11 years ago come flooding back, Doug’s first nationals at this very pool, one of his tasks was to get Penny Heyns to sign his card.

Boy have we travelled a journey since then. It’s been one helluva ride, and what a privilege to have been able to travel this journey with my son, to see him achieve his ultimate dream, to get to the Olympics. This week has had the highest of highs and the lowest of lows… I have sat and watched parents so overcome with emotion when their son just missed the qualifying time by one hundredth of a second and those same parents 2 nights later celebrate so ecstatically when he qualified in an event that was totally unexpected and I have shed a tear with them, I have watched a grandfather try and keep his tears in check while he consoled his granddaughter because her plan never worked out. The disappointment on a swimmers face when they haven’t made it is heart breaking to say the least.

Having experienced the same heartbreak on Thursday evening when Doug’s 100 free didn’t go according to plan, how as a swim mom do you hold on to your composure – tomorrow is another day, a new race, a new plan and wow, what a plan that was, to qualify for the Olympics in the heats session.

We are so very proud to have been able to be part of Doug’s support system, not only here at Nationals, but all year round year in and year out … by the whole family – a journey 13 years in the making, starting with his first galas at school, to the parent who at his first Inter High asked me who Doug was coaching with and my answer was that he didn’t have a coach and I was told by that same parent to get him to a coach – I wish I knew your name that night – I did it, I became a swim mom.

Thank you are not words that are big enough to say to Team Doug’s family – Moms, Dads, Grans, Sister, Brother in Law, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and Doug’s 2 other mothers, Jill Williams and Gail Dalton – I thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening to me go on about galas, physc sheets, times, starts and turns (I promise, I will get another hobby) – we are indebted to you. Liz Woodin, Edna Douglas and Colin Douglas at CBC Boksburg – who encouraged Doug at school swimming level, to Glenn Keevy and Milka Keevy Doug’s first swimming club Swift Swimming – your unwavering support of Doug is so very much valued and appreciated

To the team from Eastern Aquatics – where it all began, thank you for your cheering and support this week it is much appreciated, Roland Schoeman a true champion, Role Model and Mentor to Doug, THANK YOU, for taking Doug under your wing, to Jason Arthur Lawson – what an amazing friend you have turned out to be and last but not least, the Tuks Aquatics family, Igor and Irene, Magdalein, Andrea and the rest of the team THANK YOU – your support of Doug has been incredible. Doug – you have done us all proud – your incredible hard work, guts and determination has been rewarded. Thank you for making me a swim mom – what an honour”.

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Report Back: Carissa van Rooyen – SA Nationals and Olympic Trials 2016

May 1, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

Carissa shares on the valuable experiences, lessons learned, mind set at the time of these 2 big meets,. These are so important to store and look back on for the journey forward. Well done Carissa proud of you!

Meet / Championships Report Back
Name & Surname	Carissa van Rooyen
Name of Meet	SA Nationals and Olympic Trials/ SA Level 3 Nationals
Date of Meet	April 2016/ March 2016
City and Country	Durban, South Africa/ Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Names of various Events participated in?	Main events: SA Level 3 Nationals (March 2016) 50m, 100m and 200m backstroke 50m and 100m Freestyle 50m Butterfly SA Nationals and Olympic Trials (April 2016) 50m, 100m and 200m backstroke 50m and 100m Freestyle 4 X 100m Medley Relay – Woman – Central Gauteng A team
Names of medals/ awards received for which events?	SA Nationals and Olympic Trials: Gold – 50m backstroke – Woman – National Champion Bronze – 100m backstroke – Elite Youth 4^th place overall – 100m backstroke – Woman 11^th place overall – 200m backstroke – Woman Silver – 4 X 100m Medley Relay – Woman – Central Gauteng A team. SA Level 3 Nationals 2 X Individual Gold (50m and 100m backstroke) 2 X Individual Silver )50m freestyle and 200m backstroke) 4^th place – 50m fly 5^th place – 100m
Highlights of the event?	SA Nationals and Olympic Trials This was my 1^st SA Nationals and on top of it the Olympic Trials. Both these occurrences at the same time were extraordinary. My initiation as a first year was definitely a highlight. Witnessing history being made completely blew me away and living the disappointment of those who did not qualify was draining yet motivational. I don’t think much will top when I won the 50m backstroke event and being a National Champion at age 13. In more ways than one this gala completely changed my perspective towards swimming and a new found respect developed for the sport. SA Level 3 Nationals I have not had two seasons of good training and having had a better training season in the 2015/ 2016 season helped me to look forward to doing better at this gala. A great highlight was meeting Olivia Nel. She woke us up and it was great racing against her. Another great highlight was to realise that you are as good as your last swim and that we have excellent competition and swimmers in South Africa. My 50m Free and Fly events stood out for me as I shocked myself when I completed the swims. I was very happy with the times I swam.
Lessons learned from the event?	SA Nationals and Olympic Trials I learned at this event how to deal with great stress and that I can be as good as I allow myself to be. I also learnt that the body only goes as far as the mind pushes it. SA Level 3 Nationals There is a BIG difference between racing fast vs hard. I nearly lost the 100m backstroke because I swam too hard in wanting to achieve my goal time. I also learned the discipline in swimming tactically – time should not always be an objective but knowing your competitor is very important.
General observations and vibe of the meet?	SA Nationals and Olympic Trials This gala was amazing. The stress, the emotions, the competition – wow, what an experience. SA Level 3 Nationals The focus and discipline of all the swimmers was great. Here you competed against your age group peers and you got a clear understanding of where you stand .
What/ who / motivated you throughout the meet / champs?	SA Nationals and Olympic Trials My main motivation here was to see how hard I can push myself but to have fun and enjoy the experience. The swimmers who qualified for the Olympics was also a great motivation. SA Level 3 Nationals My motivation for this gala was to see if I can improve my best strokes and hopefully surprise myself with strokes that I don’t focus on.
Biggest challenge leading up to / at the meet?	SA Nationals and Olympic Trials To see if I can make a semi-final or even a final. SA Level 3 Nationals I broke my finger a few weeks before level 3 and it was an obstacle that I had to overcome leading up to levels and I was worried that it would affect my racing.
Anything Else you want to mention	I just want to congratulate everyone who participated in both galas. I want to thank everyone for their support especially my mom who was 100% behind me throughout the whole gala. I don’t think I would’ve done what I achieved without her and I am truly grateful for her presence and support in my life. Also a big thank you to you Cresi for this opportunity to discuss the galas.

Champs Report Back Home Sports Swimming

Report Back – Duné Coetzee – Level 3 and Senior Nationals (SANAT) 2016

April 30, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

It is so wonderful to follow the heart felt and passionate experiences of our young athletes on their long journey to the top. Well done Dune on your brilliant performances despite many challenges.

Meet / Championships Report Back
Name & Surname	Duné Coetzee
Name of Meet	Level 3 and Senior Nationals (SANAT) 2016
Date of Meet	18 March and 10 April
City and Country	Port Elizabeth and Durban
Names of various Events participated in?	100 Free 200 Free 400 Free 50 Fly 100 Fly 200 Fly
(Names of medals/ awards received for which events?)	100 Free: Bronze at Level 3 New NTS record Equaled the previous SA Record for girls 13 years old that were held by Erin Galagher at the start of the season 200 Free Silver at Level 3 New NTS record Broke the previous SA Record for girls 13 years old that were held by Nicola Stanley at the start of the season 400 Free Silver at Level 3 New NTS record 50 Fly Gold at Level 3 100 Fly Gold at Level 3 Silver for Elite Youth at SANAT New NTS record Broke the previous SA Record for girls 13 years old that were held by Christy Lategan at the start of the season 200 Fly Gold at Level 3 and Finals at SNAT New NTS record
Highlights of the event?	Level 3 My highlight for the event came in the 100 freestyle where I managed to swim a 100 meters under a minute for the first in my life! It was a tightly contested race where I got out touched into 3^rd spot by Rebecca Meder. Olivia Nel came through strongly in this event and set a new South African Age Group (NAG) record. My time of 59.14 would have equaled the NAG record at the start of season). Rebecca however broke this record during the season and as mentioned, Olivia took it down even more. SANAT I fell sick on the first day of the event. Thankfully it was after my preliminaries for 100 Fly in the morning. I managed to set a new NAG record in the morning and in the process qualified for the semi-finals in the evening. This swim also earned me a silver medal in the Elite Youth category of the competition. I became ill during the day and in the semifinals that evening I still managed to qualify for the finals with a time that would have again broken the old NAG record. Unfortunately I had to withdraw from the finals the following evening.
Lessons learned from the event?	Level 3 After my 200 Fly I was incorrectly selected for a drug test (They were supposed to select an 18 year old). I had to swim the 200 Free a couple of events later and got completely distracted by the process and the official following me around until after I raced the 200 free. I was totally unprepared for the questions with regards of the type of medication, vitamins etc that I had taken in the week leading up to the event. Next time I will have all this prepared and will know how to handle the drug testing process better. SANAT As mentioned I became sick during the event. I got to know what it is to handle the disappointment of being in the best shape I could be in but not being able to race at my best because of circumstances outside of my control.
General observations and vibe of the meet?	Level 3 The same as last year – this was an amazing event for me and the vibe was again exhilarating! SANAT IT WAS THE OLYMPIC TRIALS!! What more can I say!! It was such a brilliant experience! I can’t wait for the next one 🙂
What/ who / motivated you throughout the meet / champs?	At both events I had tremendous support from my coach and my parents. I tried to focus on my goals which kept on motivating me to perform at my best!
Biggest challenge leading up to / at the meet?	Level 3 The drug testing process as mentioned SANAT Falling sick during the event and trying to recover and race for the rest of the event. It is hard to work so hard for an event and then not being able to do what you came for.
Anything Else you want to mention	Can’t wait for the next season!!

Olympics 2016 Rio Proudly South African Sports Swimming

Brian Spurr Photography @SA National Aquatics: Olympic Trials

April 30, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

I met this brilliant photographer and legend, Brian Spurr at the SA National Aquatic Champs / Olympic Trials 2016. Brian has a keen eye for detail and manages to capture that special moment or expression. This is what becomes priceless to a memory box when one slowly relives the many moments of an event.

Cameron vd Burgh 4 and Jarred Crous 5, both set Olympic qualifying times in 20om breaststroke.

Brian was at the Olympic Trials 2016 for the entire duration of the event and you can thus order any of your most up close and precious captured memories from him.

Here are his contact details:

Facebook: Here

Cell: 082 553 2029

E:mail: brian.spurr@gmail.com

You may then contact Brian via e-mail to place your order giving your name and other details. You can also go over to Flickr and check out what he has loaded.

Flicker Links for you to copy and paste into your web browser to see sample photos

MEDALS – https://www.flickr.com/photos/139878654@N05/sets/72157667100483252/

GENERAL SWIMMING – https://www.flickr.com/gp/139878654@N05/B3i3P6

DIVING – https://www.flickr.com/gp/139878654@N05/533635

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