Fourways Legends displayed incredible talent and dedication at the annual swimming gala held on the 19th of January 2024. Among the standout athletes were Junior Victor Ludorum Christopher Lynch from Terra, and Senior Victrix Ludorum Timieke Smith from Ignus.
Junior Victor Ludorum, Christopher, did not expect to be in the limelight so early in his high school career. Upon being interviewed, Christopher said: “I feel proud and excited, achieving Victor Ludorum was a goal of mine, but something I was not expecting to get especially just coming into high school.” Christopher testified that achieving this award did not only take pure talent. “Training for these events was me going to a private swimming club which helped my strokes, endurance, and speed. It was hard work, but it was worth it in the end.”
Christopher is sure swimming is something he will thrive in; however, he isn’t convinced it’s something he would like to pursue as a career. He admitted, “Swimming is something I’m definitely good at and something I enjoy doing, but I currently don’t have pursuing it as a career in mind.”
On the other hand, this was not first time Timieke Smith was awarded the title Victrix Ludorum or “the winner of the games for women.” Winning this prestigious award is a goal she always strived for. She said: “Winning Victrix Ladorum is a rewarding and comforting feeling, it is proof of the hard work, discipline and determination I put into my sport.”
However, she also highlights the difficulties the sport comes with, having said, “Training towards my vision in competitive swimming is often intimidating, both physically and emotionally tiring. Working towards it includes long hours, early mornings, and fatigue.”
These challenges don’t faze Timieke as being submerged in a body of water is one of the few places she finds comfort and serenity. She sees swimming as a place of self- expression.
While a career in swimming has always been the goal, she admits she doesn’t know what the future holds for her. “I have a talent I want to pursue, even if it means it’s only temporary,” says the 2024 Senior Victor Ludorum.
Both Timieke and Christopher are applauded for their stellar performances!