Thursday, August 24, 2023

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Joleigh Strydom Jumps To Attention

Joleigh Strydom, 10-year-old swimmer from Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, joined the Pioneer Dolphins in September 2022 and has been turning heads ever since.

She trained under Rita Townsend in South Africa and her love for swimming was cemented thereon. Swimming competitions are only held via the schools in South Africa, so the regular competitions locally in North Queensland are a welcome treat for our girl.

Joleigh’s family relocated to Australia from South Africa to escape the high crime/ job shortages experienced in 2021. Her family sought out a similar lifestyle to their beloved South Africa choosing the gorgeous Mackay to call their new home.  

Under the guidance of Igor Demin (Pioneer Coach) Joleigh’s swimming has kicked up a gear. She has qualified for all four strokes (freestyle, butterfly, backstroke and breaststroke) for the upcoming Queensland Championships in Brisbane on 11-12 February 2023.  Her favourite stroke is breaststroke, continuing to podium place in this event at most carnivals.

Joleigh has described her love for swimming is made easy whilst spending time with her friends in the squad.  She says Pioneer Swimming Club plays a big part of her life.

We are truly proud of you Joleigh and are equally excited for you and what your future holds.

Contributed by Tahnie Malagueno

Image: 10-year-old Joleigh Strydom joined the Pioneer Swimming Club after moving to Mackay from South Africa

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