On top of the world
CARLSWALD - There was never a shadow of doubt that star swimmer Carissa van Rooyen would end the 2013/2014 swimming season without a string of gold medals and more record breaking times.
Carlswald-based, Van Rooyen returned from the SA Level 2 Regional gala held at Ellis Park Swimming Pool with five gold medals.
She broke her 50m backstroke record twice and set a new South African record in the 100m backstroke for girls age 11.
Van Rooyen’s mother Liezel said, “Carissa swam incredible times of 31.06 in the 50m backstroke and 1.08.2 in the 100m backstroke. Carissa has now engraved her name among some of the top South African female swimmers and as the best in her game for girls age 11 in the world for both the 50m and 100m backstroke.
Her five gold medals were achieved in the 50m, 100m and 200m backstroke as well as in the 50m and 100m freestyle.
She received a bronze medal in the 200m freestyle and fourth place in the 400m freestyle. In the relay races for girls 13 and under, Van Rooyen’s team won gold in the 4X50m freestyle and 4X50m medley relays.
“Carissa is delighted with her results and is looking forward to reaching new heights in the new swimming season. No rest for the best. Carissa will be back in the pool this week starting her preparation for the SA Nationals in 2015 with her coach Matthew Josephson,” said Liezel.
