True adventure comes through pushing to the limits while leaving nothing to chance.
What could seem like an extreme sport to some, 15-year-old Ashleigh van der Walt finds freedom, peace and tranquility in the art of scuba diving. Standing for self-contained underwater breathing apparatus, scuba diving is an adrenaline-fuelled rush that contrasts the need for life or death precision with the reward of intimately experiencing the sensory charms of the submerged realm.
Trained by her grandfather Pieter Smith, Ashleigh has been wandering the watery depths since the age of ten. Scuba runs in the family as her father and uncle are also keen scuba divers, creating the perfect bubble in which to master the skills that unlock a world that needs to be seen to be understood. “You don’t notice time and it is so beautiful. You can really get away from the noise,” said Ashleigh, who frequents Miracle Waters diving centre, just outside Brits.
The key to scuba diving is the breathing techniques used, which also help her keep a focused mental state in her other extra-curricular activities. The multitalented young lady also takes part in hockey, debating, choir and is even one of the voices of her high school radio station, Radio Florries. Ashleigh may have dived to depths of over ten metres but with her desire to absorb the world around her, the sky is the limit.
The hypnotic draw to the water offers clarity of mind and deep introspection. “You never stop learning. Down there you can understand yourself and you know the world understands you,” said Ashleigh. She advised that nobody should let fear prevent them from diving, or doing anything, saying, “Do not let your potential go to waste because you lack confidence”.
