Online Reporter
Ellina Mhlanga-Zimpapers Sports Hub
FOR top Zimbabwean swimmer Paige Van Der Westhuizen, every competition she takes part in between now and 2028 is more about building towards realising her ultimate goal – the Olympic Games.
She is one of the four athletes named by Zimbabwe Swimming for the upcoming World Aquatics Championships in Singapore.
The championships will see participants competing in the six aquatic sports – swimming, water polo, diving, artistic swimming, open water swimming and high diving – from July 11 to August 3 in Singapore.
“This selection means absolutely everything to me. It gives me a world stage to showcase all the hard work I’ve put into my training.
“It is always such an honour to be able to represent Zimbabwe on the world stage.
“Every time I put on that cap and stand behind the blocks, I am reminded of the incredible support from my country, my family and my team,” Van Der Westhuizen said.
The other team members are rising star Anje Van As, who has been making waves in the pool, Cory Werrett and Joash Mckonie.
Van As swam her way to three medals at the Africa Aquatics Junior Championships on her debut more than a month ago.
Van Der Westhuizen, who has competed at this level before, made her maiden appearance at the Olympic Games in Paris, France last year.
She has set her eyes on the next edition of the Games, Los Angeles 2028.
A member of Team Zimbabwe to the 2023 African Games in Accra, Ghana, she is aware that regularly competing on the world stage where she will be up against some of the best swimmers from across the globe can only help her continuously rise to levels that merit podium performances at the much tougher Olympics.
“LA 2028 (Olympics) is a major goal for me. Every competition I do between now and then is part of building towards that dream.
“Representing Zimbabwe at another Olympic Games would be an incredible honour and something I am very determined to work towards.
“It is extremely important.
“Competing on big stages like the World Championships helps you continuously raise your level, learn from the best in the world, and adapt to racing under pressure.
“Each experience is a stepping stone towards bigger goals like the Olympics.
“It’s about building resilience, gaining race sharpness, and refining every detail to be ready when it counts the most,” added Van Der Westhuizen.
She will be competing in the 50m and 100m freestyle at the upcoming meet.
“We have been focusing on building speed, refining technique and making sure I am mentally and physically ready for the challenge.
“Every session has a purpose, and I am excited to see how the work will translate in the pool.
“Absolutely. Having raced at the Olympics and other major competitions has given me invaluable experience in handling high-pressure environments.
“I’ve learned so much about managing nerves, staying focused and trusting my process. I believe all those lessons will help me approach the World Championships with more confidence and composure.”
The UK-based swimmer competed at BUCS Long and Short Course Championships, the World Short Course Championships in Budapest, Irish National Trials – where she won a bronze medal in the 50m freestyle.
She has been to the Scottish Short Course Championships, and the Edinburgh International Meet and will also compete in the upcoming Edinburgh Summer event.
Van Der Westhuizen will also plunge into the blue waters at the World University Games.
“Since the Paris Olympic Games, I have made it a priority to keep racing regularly and gaining valuable experience.
“Each of these competitions has helped me sharpen my skills, test myself against top swimmers, and continue building towards my future goals,” said Van Der Westhuizen.
Over 2 500 athletes are expected to participate at the championships.
