A young blonde swimmer is taking the local swimming scene by storm with some majestic performances in the pool. The vibrant Scarlett Botes (9), a Gr. 4 learner at Potchefstroom Central School, took eight first places at the North West Schools’ Gala. She took gold in the 100 m breaststroke, 200 m breaststroke, 200 m backstroke, 100 m freestyle, 50 m butterfly, 200 m freestyle, 200 m backstroke, 100 m backstroke and 200 m individual medley respectively.

Scarlett started swimming competitively at the age of five. She is a member of the Potchefstroom Swimming Club, under the tutelage of her experienced coach, Marike van Oort.

“I enjoy swimming the 200 m breaststroke the most. I am much faster in this event and it’s the easiest for me. The best part of swimming is meeting new swimmers. I really enjoy being in the water,” she said.