Newcastle’s Paula van Zyl, swims for the golden victory
Looking to the remainder of 2018, Paula said there were a few South African competitions on the calendar and she hoped to qualify for the 2019 World Games.
Paula van Zyl has returned home three gold medals richer.
The 15-year-old swimmer earned first position finishes in the 100-metre backstroke, 100m freestyle and 50m freestyle events at the CPISRA (Cerebral Palsy International Sports and Recreation Association) World Games in Barcelona, Spain earlier this month.
In her words, many months of training had truly paid off.
Paula said her experience at the World Games was rewarding and emotional at times, particularly when the South African national anthem was played.
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She also formed new friendships across the globe.
“The standard of the competition was good. The event was well organised and not your everyday gala.”
Although her medals might suggest Paula breezed past the competition, she admitted there were races where her competitors were of the toughest stock.
However, she let her own determination pave the way to success.
“I made four personal bests of five races and earned three gold medals.”
Proud parents, Elke and Franz are also overjoyed with Paula’s accolades.
Looking to the remainder of 2018, Paula said there were a few South African competitions on the calendar and she hoped to qualify for the 2019 World Games.
Her ultimate goal was the 2020 Paralympic Games however.
“I have trained for two successive seasons, so I will be taking a break until September, then pushing flat out again.”
In conclusion, Paula thanked her coach, Amy Fraser for believing in and pushing her, St Dominic’s Newcastle for allowing her time off, and the Newcastle Swimming Club for its constant support.
“There are lots more to thank and too many to mention by name. I say thanks to them all!”
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