Hannah’s Journey begins representing NZ in Swimming

On May 8th, I was selected for the NZ Swim Team to compete at the “2017 Commonwealth Youth Games” in the Bahamas in July. Swim NZ set very high standards to make the team, but through dedication and hard work, I have qualified.

This is my 2nd international meet in a matter of months having just returned in April from Brisbane competing at the "Australian Age Group Swimming Championships" in which I achieved a gold and a silver medal.

My first introduction to swimming was when my Dad dunked me in the water while being bathing at the hospital. I spluttered, coughed and bobbed up for air. Since then, the water has never been far away from me. I then took lessons from the age of 6 months and have never looked back.

I currently swim for the Selwyn Swim Club, in Rolleston, Christchurch up to 8 times a week and also vary my training to include some gym work and pilates.

Swimming is not just about kicking and moving your arms, it’s an all over body workout that includes strengthening and conditioning. It is a very disciplined sport which requires commitment, dedication, motivation and excellent time management. I believe that I have all these qualities and one day dreams of competing in either the Commonwealth or Olympic Games.

I am one step closer to this now, as part of the Swim NZ National Development Squad. This squad identifies and develops swimmers who are capable of achieving future successes at an international level.

I hold a number of Swim Canterbury West Coast and South Island records and have also done Christchurch Girls High School proud, competing at a national level with distinction.

I have also started a Face Book page (Hannah Swimming my life), so you too can follow my journey as it progresses.

Currently the “Bank of Mum and Dad” are keeping me afloat, and have already invested plenty in me so far. Due to there being no funding available for such trips, I am looking to help fund raise.