The young Bloemfontein -swimmer Dané de Klerk has been selected to represent South Africa on the World Aquatics Junior Swimming Championships, which take place in Otopeni, Romania, in August 2025.
Swim South Africa announced the 27-member team last week, with the clerk the only swimmer from Bloemfontein and the entire free state-was-wash to make the cut.
She will compete in the 400m individual medley of the girls and not only marks her debut at the level of the world championship, but also her very first trip abroad – something that contributes to her excitement.
De Klerk trains with the Super Seals Swimming Club in Bloemfontein and has the distinction to become coach Simon Gray’s 40th international swimmer. Gray has accompanied top names, such as Olympic gold medal winner Ryk Neethling and former world champion Zane Waddell.
De Klerk said with Bloemfontein Courant that there are a few nerves for her first overseas journey, but said that the fact that she knows that many of her teammates travel to Otopeni has helped to alleviate the fear.
“It’s pretty exciting. It’s my first time I go abroad, and doing it with people I know makes it a bit easier. It makes me at ease – so yes, I am very excited,” said the clerk.
“To be honest, I don’t know what to expect. I have never been outside South Africa before. At the moment I just want to enjoy it, train hard and see what I can do. Hopefully I will continue next time.”
De Klerk said that her main goal is to concentrate on her own performance in the swimming pool, with a new personal best time as her top priority. For her, everything under 4: 59.00 in the 400m IM would be a big achievement.
“I watched the times of last year’s junior worlds to get an idea of ​​what to expect. Every swimmer has his event, and so far I am the only South African girl who came in for the 400 IM, so I don’t really have someone to compare myself with our team. But I have seen what some of the other international swimmers have done.
“Times are pretty fast, so I don’t expect me to make the final, but I would really like to hit a new PB – or at least improve my current time.”
As the only swimmer of both Bloemfontein and the free state adds a bit of pressure, she admitted – but it is weighed heavier due to a strong sense of pride.
“I have to say, there is a bit busy because I know that many swimmers are going, and it will be a bit strange to talk to people I don’t know. But it is also very cool to be the only one in Bloemfontein – it makes me very proud.”
While De Klerk de Green and Gold will attract on the international stage, the costs of participation remain a major obstacle. Every swimmer is obliged to lift R60,000 to realize the journey.
The 2025 World Aquatics Junior Swimming Championships will be held from 19 to 24 August in Romania. – Morgan Piet
Morgan Piek
www.bloemfonteincourant.co.za