Bulawayo young swimmer shines in Botswana

BULAWAYO Amateur Swimming Association (BASA) swimmer, Jamela Madonko was the star attraction at the Darell Morton’s School of Swimming (DMSS) Gators Swimming Club Gala held recently at the University of Botswana Aquatic Centre.

The eight-year-old swimmer participated in five events and managed to win medals in all of them. From the five medals won, three were gold and two were silver. To cap his impressive campaign, he was awarded the Victor’s trophy for boys eight and under.

Madonko, a pupil at Whitestone School in Bulawayo and a member of the Penguins Swimming Club, won gold in the 50-metre butterfly, 50-metre breaststroke and 100-metre freestyle. His two silver medals were for the 50-metre backstroke and 50-metre freestyle.

After an impressive performance at what is dubbed the best swimming competition in Botswana, the youngster’s mother, Rejoice Madonko said there is a lot more to expect from the Grade Four pupil who is new to the sport.

“I am very proud and happy with his performance given that he is still new in the field of swimming. I believe he still has a lot to learn and if he listens to his coaches he will go very far,” she said.
Madonko went to Botswana as part of the BASA swimming team that was led by Lucinda Afzal and Yvette Chicken. — @brandon_malvin