Q: You made such a wonderful statement recently, you said “2020 is ours baby” ☺ What causes this fire and determination burning within you?
After competing at Nationals and seeing how quick Christopher Reid and Chad swam, inspired me to work hard for the next four years to absolutely smash 2020 Olympics.
Q: You did brilliantly at SA Nationals / Olympic trials the with many podium positions, congrats! It was still one of the toughest and most important sporting events for a swimmer to attend. Would you like to share what is on your heart and mind and how you experienced it?
It is definitely one of the most stressful meets any athlete can compete in on a national level. I think the best way I can say this is that I had to force myself to take it one step at a time.
Q: What was your biggest challenge leading up to these champs (if any)? and how did you manage that challenge?
My biggest challenge was to keep training hard in the last few weeks of tough training before taper time, and the only way I got through that was through the support of my coach, Simon Gray and my parents.
Q: What was your state of mind leading up to it?
I was unusually calm going into nationals but I got nervous when it got to race time, I’ll probably find a way to deal with that as I grow more mature.
Q: Why do you have such deep seated respect for your coach/es and support system along your journey?
Swimming at this level is a team sport, despite what people say. Your team consists of your coach, physio, parents and friends. You’ve got to treat this team the same way you would treat your rugby/hockey team. If you are willing to give your all for them, they’ll give their all for you.
Q: Lessons learned/ notes to self so far on your swimming journey in general?
Stay strong and take it one day at a time, with the bigger picture in the foreground.
Q: I have a beautiful image of you on your knees next to your block at Olympic trials. Your comments on this?
I wasn’t intending on that moment getting caught but I think is a beautiful picture and I love what it represents. You find power when you are standing, but courage on your knees.
Q: You are off to the US soon, how is your excitement levels?
☺ I am looking forward to start training in the US with the University Of Alabama. My excitement is through the roof!!
Q: Anything else you would like to share?
God Bless and Roll Tide!
Photo Credits – Heslop Sports
