Fairweather puts swimming world on notice

Dunedin swimmer Erika Fairweather
Photo: Simon Watts BW Media

Erika Fairweather has put the swimming world on notice clocking the fourth fastest time in the world this year in the 200m freestyle at the national swimming champs in Auckland.

The 19 year old Dunedin swimmer set a New Zealand record in her heats before bettering it in the final, clocking 1:55.44s.

“I’m absolutely stoked, that felt a bit rougher than this morning but that was to be expected,” said Fairweather.

“The puzzle pieces seem to be finally fitting together and I’m bringing out some massive swims which feels great.”

Hazel Ouwehand
Photo: Simon Watts BW Media

Hazel Ouwehand set a national record in the 50m butterfly, posting a time of 26.12s and also securing qualification for the world champs in Japan in July.

Ouwehand couldn’t contain herself when she saw her time, slapping the water and yelling with joy.

“I’m ecstatic and puffed and tired!” she said.

“It was a great swim, I just gave it hell and gave it everything I had and thankfully that was enough. It’s awesome to get that record, it’s the first I’ve ever had and hopefully it’s the first of many.”

In the men’s 100m backstroke Commonwealth Games champion Andrew Jeffcoat secured his World Champs qualification.

“It’s great to get that World Champs qualification too, that takes the pressure off for the rest of the week which is awesome,” said Jeffcoat.

Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Cameron Gray won the men’s 50m fly but was unable to beat his heat time of 23.27s which equalled his New Zealand record and secured his World Championships qualification.

Whangārei, three-time Paralympic champion Cameron Leslie (S4) was also in action, swimming in the 200m freestyle multi class.

The 33-year-old posted a time of 3:04.25s in the finals, having already secured World Para Swimming Champs.

Dame Sophie Pascoe (QEII) was also in action, racing in the 50m fly multi class she posted a time of 29.37s.

“That was faster than last years’ time which is awesome for me,” said Pascoe.

“I’m loving being back at nationals and I’m really excited about the possibility for us to qualify a relay team. We haven’t had the numbers before and I’d love to be a part of a team and see that for New Zealand.”

-RNZ