Congratulations - Erika Fairweather

At 14 years old Erika will likely be one of the youngest athletes, if not the youngest athlete, competing at the Buenos Aires 2018 Youth Olympic Games as her birthday (31/12/2003) is the cut off date for eligible athletes.

The last twelve months has been a breakout year for Erika who now holds 12 national age-group records, including the girls 14 years 200m and 400m freestyle short course records set last weekend at the Otago Winter Championships.  She will compete in the women’s 100m, 200m, 400m and 800m freestyle events.

Profile:
Age at Games: 14
High School: Kavanagh College
Ethnicity: NZ European/Maori (Ngai Tahu)
Career highlight: My career highlight was probably medalling at the NZ Opens in the 400 and 200 freestyle.
How did you get into your sport: I started swimming in a learn to swim program when I was very young and after completing most of the levels I joined the Dunedin squad system and started racing.
What do you love about the sport: I love the competitive side of swimming, being able to race teammates and friends for bragging rights or chocolate is always fun! I love the way I move and feel in the water.
What inspires you: I'm inspired by many people but most of all I'm inspired by my coaches and the older members of my team who love the sport as much as I do and are always supportive of each other while at the same time achieving at high levels.