Super swimming camp awaits
Pukekohe’s Janaye Burns has earned a place in a coveted national junior swim squad.
The 11-year-old won her age group at the Bay of Islands Classic swim held in Paihia, which was the sixth event in the seven swim New Zealand Ocean Swim Series.
Her win in the 200m OceanKids event has secured her a place in the Jetstar Super Swim Squad, which means she will take part in a weekend camp in Auckland with some top name elite swimmers and coaches in May.
Throughout the season, each qualifying event has allowed children the opportunity to earn a place in the 36 member squad.
After she placed second in her age group at the Christchurch Crown event, Janaye was determined to win a place in the Squad at the Bay of Islands Classic event. This will be Janaye’s third time attending the camp and she was ecstatic to be able to retain her place.
‘‘I am really excited about working with the new coaching team this year and meeting the other squad members. I can’t wait to learn new skills which will help me in the ocean and in the pool,’’ said Janaye.
Janaye’s mum Vanessa said it was a fantastic achievement.
‘‘It has been a huge privilege for Janaye to attend the camp for the past two years. Both times she has come away with more focus and drive with regards to her swimming. We are thrilled that Janaye will once again have this opportunity in 2017.’’
Janaye’s training for the event consisted of pool swimming at Pukekohe Swimming Club.
New Zealand Ocean Swim Series event director Scott Rice said the camp was a great initiative.
‘‘Jetstar’s support over the past five years has benefitted over 150 youngsters and their families throughout New Zealand.
‘‘It’s not just the development of their technical skills but also the confidence they have gained from being exposed to positive, Olympic role models as well as training alongside their national swimming peers. Many of them have gone on to compete at national level.’’