Imelda Smith, a student from Saint Joseph’s Secondary School in Savusavu with family ties to Tailevu, has been gaining recognition at the Fiji Swimming Age Group Nationals held at the Damodar City Aquatic Centre in Laucala Bay, Suva. Currently in Form Six, Smith began her swimming career in Year Four, inspired by her cousins when her family moved to Fiji.
Competing in her age group, she has noticed a lack of competition, especially among female swimmers. While juggling her academic responsibilities and training, she maintains a strong commitment to the sport. Smith shared, “It’s definitely a challenge, especially for older swimmers who also need to focus on their studies. A lot of people drift away from swimming because of that.”
She believes that swimming enhances her academic performance by fostering discipline and focus, stating, “Getting up early and staying committed to swimming actually helps me with studying.” During the competition, she participated in three events while also preparing for exams. Smith won a silver medal in the 100-metre breaststroke and a gold medal in the 100-metre freestyle, despite feeling that her training had been affected by her exam schedule.
Smith encourages her peers, particularly those from Pacific Island backgrounds, to see swimming as a necessary skill. She remarked, “Swimming is a great way to stay active and focused. Being surrounded by the ocean, I believe it’s important for everyone to learn how to swim.”
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