Help swimmers to make a splash in Italy
They need to raise R45 000 to cover their travel costs, taining camps and visas, among others.
After being selected to represent Eastern Gauteng Aquatics in the Treviso Swimming Cup in Italy later this year, local swimmers Harold and Mia Pienaar are attempting to overcome the last hurdle to their participation in the competition.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the Hoërskool Hans Moore learners who, with incredible performances in the pool, have been making big splashes on the local and national circuits.
Qualification
Mia, part of the Pinnacle Gryphons AC, enjoyed a formidable 2024 where she touched the wall within the required time to qualify for the Italian competition in five events at the Swimming SA (SSA) national short course championships at Kings Park Swimming Pool in Durban, last September, and the Eastern Gauteng Aquatics (EGA) summer champs in December.
The 13-year-old qualified to compete in the 100m, 200m and 400m freestyle distances, as well as 800m and 1500m freestyle.
“Competing in Italy is a chance to elevate my career and make my mark internationally. Italy’s rich swimming history and world-class athletes provide the perfect environment for my growth,” she said.
Mia explained the opportunity to compete against the best swimmers would push her to perform to the best of her abilities; adding this opportunity would open doors to new experiences, networks, and potential sponsors.
“Success in Italy will strengthen my swimming profile and increase recognition in the international swimming community.”
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Harold earned qualifications in the 100m freestyle and 100m backstroke at the regional summer champs in December and the EGA Last Chance Gala on February 1.
He will also compete in the 200m and 400m freestyle, which he qualified for at the national short course champs in September.
The 16-year-old will also compete in the 100m freestyle and backstroke after crushing the required time when he clocked 54.31 and 01:03.47, respectively.
“This will be a transformative experience, marking my first step into international swimming. It would challenge me to adapt to new environments, face top-tier competition and grow physically and mentally,” he said.
The swimmer added this opportunity would boost his confidence, expand his network and increase his visibility in the sport.
“It could open doors to greater opportunities, sponsorships and a higher level of competition and will also help elevate my swimming career.”
Funding
Despite their successful efforts in securing qualifications for the competition, the swimmers have the giant hurdle of raising R45 000 to cover, among others, airfare and visa costs, accommodation and elite training camps from June 25 to July 8.
Their biggest supporter and family friend, Jared de Waal, started a BackaBuddy campaign to help the swimmers raise these funds. He appealed to the community to help Mia and Harold achieve their goal.
“They had been training tirelessly, pushing their limits to achieve their goals. Let’s help them make a splash on the international stage,” he said.
Donate on BackaBuddy at www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/eastern-gauteng-to-italy-harold-mias-quest
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