Nelson’s swimming community is celebrating after teenager Tegen Stewart was selected to represent New Zealand at the World Junior Open Water Championships later this year.
The 17-year-old, who represents the Nelson South Swim Club, won the New Zealand under-17 open water championship in January, but still needed to convince national selectors of her depth at the New Zealand swim championships two weekends ago.
She did exactly that, swimming the qualifying time in the 1500 metres before the confirmation came at prize-giving on Sunday night.
The moment was one Tegen says she will never forget.
“I was so nervous and scared before the team was named, but when my name was called I was really happy and excited. I can’t wait to compete.”
The World Junior Open Water Championships will be held in Argentina in September, giving Tegen a short window to tailor her training for the demands of international competition.
To many, the championship race distance of 7.5 kilometres sounds daunting, but for Tegen it is familiar territory.
“It’s the same distance I won the New Zealand championship earlier this year, so I’m not afraid of it. It’s a long way, but if I stick to the race plan, it’s definitely achievable.”
Coach Glen Findlay says that preparation now ramps up significantly as they look ahead to a world-class field.
“We know the field in Argentina will be incredibly strong, but unlike pool swimming where you can track competitors’ times, open water is defined by variables like conditions and wetsuit tactics. We’re preparing to be ready for whatever comes our way.
“To meet that challenge, we are heading into an intense build-up, focusing on a schedule of nine swimming sessions and three gym sessions per week to build the engine and resilience needed for the world stage.”
Like many junior athletes in New Zealand, international competition comes with significant personal cost. The trip is expected to cost about $10,000, which must be covered by the athlete and her family.
“My uncle has started a Givealittle page, so if people want to help me get to the event they are able to donate towards it by heading there,” Tegen says.
