Warner Beach resident Monica Botha, 14, recently competed in the Swimming South Africa Regional Championships at Kings Park Aquatic Centre, where she bagged a bronze medal hat trick.
She entered five events and swam personal bests in the 100 and 200 backstroke. She achieved top spots in the 100 freestyle, 100 backstroke and 200 backstroke in her age group.
“Being awarded three bronze medals was completely unexpected and I am overjoyed with my performance. On day one of the gala, I really struggled and I felt like my body was on fire. On day two and three, my body just adapted and I am very thankful for that.”
She began swimming at a young age to assist her physically.
“I started swimming to make my lungs strong at the age of five. My baby and toddler years were not easy as I suffered from chronic pneumonia and asthma, but I am a healthy teenager which I am very grateful for. When I was two-years-old the doctors tested me for leukemia and our family was very relieved when tests were negative. We are committed to raising awareness for childhood cancer.”
She is a firm supporter of Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa and Beat Childhood Cancer. Monica dedicates every swim to the organisations. The passionate swimmer is a 2020/ 21 Swimming SA Junior Squad member.
“The 2020 level five lockdown hit Monica hard as she could only do land training. In July last year, she resumed training in Pietermaritzburg until October when the gyms opened and she could train at the local gym. In February, she swam a senior national qualifying time in the 100 backstroke at a gala in Margate. She also holds the 2019 senior national qualifying time in the 100 freestyle. Sadly, the team could not travel anywhere due to lockdown,” said her mother, Marinda.
In October last year, she swam a 100-meter freestyle in 1:00:95 at Kings Park Aquatic Centre in a 25m pool.
She encourages other young swimmers to keep working towards their goals.
“Make sure you have set goals and constantly work towards them. Never give up and always believe in yourself. You should also never compare yourself to others. Even if you fail, keep striving to be better and try again. It is important to keep your fighting spirit alive,” said the talented swimmer.
Monica also enjoys playing the piano and reading.
ALSO READ: Monica makes waves at national swimming championships
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