NATHANIEL MAINTAINS HIS GOOD FORM
It’s been raining personal best times for the Pacific island swimmers at the World Aquatic Championships in Singapore in the first two days of competition.
Nathaniel Noka of Papua New Guinea had contributed his own small part to the downpour by posting a personal best on Day 1 in the Men’s 50m Butterfly.
There was an opportunity to build on this on Day 3 as he lined up in the Men’s 50m Breaststroke. The 24 year old was looking to lower his personal best in this event once again, having set a time of 32.16 at the Papua New Guinea National Championships in April this year.
Softly spoken Nathaniel gave us an insight into his experience and preparation for the morning Heat.
‘I just focus on what I have to do in the pool at the right time. So, my coach told me to push off strongly. I could feel it was going well because of my stroke count.’
That feeling was well founded, as Nathaniel finished in a very respectable time of 33.47 seconds.
Nathaniel is an experienced swimmer who has competed at three World Championships. As well as adding to his experience in the pool, he’s also keen to contribute to Team Oceania as well as learn from the other swimmers here.
‘One of my favourite moments is to watch others swim. It’s fun mixing with the other teams from Oceania and cheering them on.’
Nathaniel is now looking forward to swimming alongside his teammates on Day 4 in the Mixed 4 x 100m Medley Relay and then on Day 7 in the Mixed 4 x 100m Freestyle Relay, as he looks to maintain his good form.
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Written by The Reporters’ Academy. Photos by Andrea Schuster.