Papua New Guinea benefitting from their preparation
On day two we caught up with two Papua New Guinean swimmers to see how they were getting on at the Pacific Mini Games. Josh Traere who is currently enrolled in The World Aquatic Scholarship at Bond University on the Gold Coast in Australia, spoke of how this Scholarship has been aiding his development.
‘Some days we just focus on technique, other days we focus on endurance and speed. They give the opportunity to the top athletes in PNG swimming. So I’m privileged to get this scholarship, it’s an honour and a blessing to me and my family.” The 25 year old said.’
What about the reception he has received from the host nation of Palau?
“I love Palau. People are very nice and kind here. So yeah, I love it.”
He races in his speciality events, 50/100m Freestyle on Thursday and Friday.
Roxanne Kirarock was delighted with her new personal best yesterday in the 4 x 100m Freestyle Relay, beating her previous best by a second. Today, Roxanne, who is only 14 years of age and has been swimming since she was 3, competed in the 800m Freestyle finishing in 11:42.90. We spoke to her after her race, intrigued about her personal inspiration,
“I would say my current teammates because they’re all older than me and they have more experience so look towards them for advice. I’m really thankful for all of my coaches and my friends and family because they’re the main reason that I’ve got this far in swimming and I wouldn’t be here without them.”
Papua New Guinea capped off the day by qualifying for the 4 x 50m Mixed Medley final where they finished 6th with their time 1:59.89.
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Words & interviews: The Reporters’ Academy. Photos: Ryota Nishida