SWIMMING TRIO TO SHARE OVER E50K

MBABANE – Eswatini’s swimming sensations, Hayley ‘Mshina’ Hoy, Luca ‘GD6’ Fraser and Chadd Ning, have brought immense pride to the nation.

The gifted trio has clinched nine medals at the recently-concluded Africa Aquatics Zone IV Championships in Namibia. The national team departed Eswatini, early last week, making their way to Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport, before catching their connecting flight to Windhoek, Namibia. The championships, which unfolded from December 4 to 8, 2024, featured 14 nations across the African continent, showcasing the talents of 18 swimmers from Eswatini who collectively secured nine medals. Hayley ‘Mshina’ Hoy emerged as the standout performer, dominating the competition with an impressive haul of three gold medals and one bronze, earning her a total of E27 000 in government incentives.

This financial reward stems from government’s incentives aimed at recognising exceptional international performances, as outlined by the Ministry of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs and the Eswatini Sports and Recreation Council (ESRC). A source familiar with government’s policy explained, “Hayley earned E24 000 for her gold medals and E3 000 for her bronze, totalling E27 000 for her outstanding achievements.”

Reflecting on the importance of perseverance, Nozipho Mahlalela, Secretary General of the Eswatini Swimming Association (ESA), quoted renowned wrestler Dan Gable: “Gold medals aren’t just made of gold, but rather a unique blend of grit, sweat and an indomitable spirit.” She praised Hoy’s unwavering commitment and natural talent, stating: “Mshina never disappoints, and this speaks volumes about her character.” Mahlalela also commended Fraser and Ning for their dedication to representing Eswatini, recognising their consistency and tenacity in the pool.

Admiration

She expressed admiration for all the athletes who participated, stating: “Although not everyone secured medals, they are all winners in my eyes for their commitment to representing our country.” The 16-year-old Hoy expressed her gratitude in an interview, saying, “I am so proud to have been part of this amazing team. Everyone did so well, and I couldn’t be happier. The hard work I put in over the past year in Pretoria has paid-off with these medals.” She highlighted the importance of achieving personal bests and acknowledged government’s incentives, remarking, “It is very generous and definitely motivates athletes in Eswatini to strive for podium performances.”

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