At just 21-years-old, local swimmer Rosemarie Rova will be representing Fiji at her third Pacific Games in the Solomon Islands.
Since taking up the sport 16 years ago, Rova has been a common name in Fiji Swimming, representing Fiji at various international competitions for almost a decade.
“For me personally, representing Fiji for the third time at the Pacific Games is one of my greatest achievements,” the former Swami Vivekananda College student said.
The Taveuni lass started her swimming journey with the Barracuda Swim Club in Nadi, from where she slowly climbed the ranks to become one of the top female swimmers in the country.
“I started swimming back when I was five-years-old, when I joined the Barracudas Swimming Club.
“Since then, I have been swimming throughout primary and secondary school.”
Merely three years after taking up the sport, Rova was able to capture the attention of national selectors after which she made her debut for Fiji at the New Zealand Oceania Competition in 2014. She was 11-years-old.
“So from then, my career in swimming took off.
“It’s just the love I have for the sport, getting to meet new people, experience new things, and visit new places.”
The following year, Rova went on to make her first appearance for Fiji at the Pacific Games which was held in Papua New Guinea.
“That was my first Pacific Games, my second was in 2019 in Samoa.”
At the 2019 Pacific Games, Rova was able to scoop an impressive five medals, one gold and four bronze. Rova has also represented Fiji at three Commonwealth Games.
“But throughout this time, I have swam for Fiji at other international competitions, “she added.
But for this year’s competition, all Rova aims to do is her best, and nothing less.
“I took a break from swimming last year, and coming back early this year I did not expect to be named in the team for the games.
“And because of this I’m not as good as I was, but I will certainly do my best when our swimming competition starts on Sunday.”
Rova will be competing in the 100 meter butterfly, 200m freestyle, 50m butterfly, 50m freestyle, 100m freestyle, and the relay event.
