Local scoops seven gold medals
At the moment, Tozer is training for the 2015 World Masters Championships, which will take place in Kazaan, Russia.
Tyrone Tozer, a 64-year-old Bedfordview resident and swimmer for Cape Town Masters, triumphed at the South African Masters swimming competition recently.
He won seven gold medals and three silver medals at the competition, which was held at the Stadium Swimming Complex in Bloemfontein from March 12 to 16.
“I am happy with my achievements, however there is a part of me that feels I could go faster. I am always happy with my achievements but it is my times I try to improve,” said Tozer.
He took part in the 60 to 64 age group categories for the relay and individual events.
“I have been swimming since I was 11, and over the years I have swum for South Africa and even went to the USA for four years. My son is also into swimming. That is what always keeps me going and it gives me the drive because swimming has been my life. I find swimming healthy and it keeps me fit. It is a wonderful sport; there are rarely any injuries and it makes me feel good,” said Tozer.
At the moment, Tozer is training for the 2015 World Masters Championships, which will take place in Kazaan, Russia.
“Next year I will turn 65 and I will be entering a new age group. I hope to achieve a record in this new age group. I have, on two occasions, missed the world record by less than one second. Unfortunately, I have been slightly off the pace to attain the record. My goal now is to attain a world record and become a world record holder.”
Tozer recorded one of the top 10 times in the world, earning him his South African colours. He has also been placed in the top 10 in the over 50 category for the 50 meter freestyle.
He has been involved in Masters Swimming every year since 1986, and has participated in 26 national events and six World Masters Championships.
When asked how long he intends to keep swimming competitively, Tozer said, “There is no limit. As long as I can swim, I will compete. Currently, I swim 15 kilometres a week and gym twice a week to strengthen my arms. I am a determined person. I want to keep going, that is why our motto at the club is, ‘you are always one swim away from a good mood’. If I don’t swim, I battle to get through the day.”
