Left to right, Gabrielle Doyle, Daniel Tasker, Ella Crowe, Tarquin Magner, Paige Kilduff and Matthew Wagstaff with elite swimmers Kane Radford and Charlotte Webby. Photo/supplied
Left to right, Gabrielle Doyle, Daniel Tasker, Ella Crowe, Tarquin Magner, Paige Kilduff and Matthew Wagstaff with elite swimmers Kane Radford and Charlotte Webby. Photo/supplied
A Mount Maunganui 12-year old has earned a place in a coveted national junior swim squad at the weekend.
Matthew Wagstaff won his age group at last Sunday's Legend of the Lake swim in Rotorua, the fifth event in the seven swim New Zealand Ocean Swim Series.
His win inthe 200m OceanKids event has secured him a place in the Jetstar Super Swim Squad, which means he will travel to Auckland for a weekend camp with some top name elite swimmers and coaches in April.
Throughout the season, each event will give six children the opportunity to earn a place in the 36-member squad.
"I am excited about meeting some famous swimmers and hearing about what they did to reach their goals. I am also hoping to learn from them," says Matthew.
On the day, this first-time squad member was cheered on by his mum, Karen, who is also thrilled with Matthew's accomplishment.
"I hope Matthew has fun and comes away inspired to keep on training hard in the pool to achieve his dream," says Karen.
This is fourth year the Jetstar Super Swim Squad has benefited families and communities throughout New Zealand. Feedback from elite swimmers, parents and the youngsters who have taken part has been overwhelmingly positive.
