Fourteen-year-old Grace Khelan continues to shine on the international stage, securing her second gold medal for Fiji at the New Zealand Age Group Swimming Championships in Hastings.
Khelan claimed victory in the women’s 100 metres freestyle with an impressive time of 58.62 seconds.
She had earlier taken out gold in the 50 metres freestyle in her age group, confirming her dominance in sprint events.
Fiji Aquatics Performance Coach Sharon Smith praised Khelan’s development, saying she has shown exceptional promise since she was under 12.
Smith noted that Khelan had been preparing for international exposure and only began competing overseas this year.
At her first international meet in Dunedin last month, she collected three gold medals. Now competing in Hastings, she is racing against New Zealand’s top age-group swimmers.
According to Smith, Khelan has already achieved several qualifying times for next month’s Oceania Championships, which will be held in Suva.
She added that Khelan’s performances highlight the importance of overseas exposure, especially as she continues to break age-group records.
Khelan is currently ranked among the top two swimmers in several events in Fiji.
Smith also acknowledged the efforts of head coach Esther Malani, who has played a key role in Khelan’s progress through patience and careful development.
Looking ahead, Khelan is aiming to compete in major international events, including the Junior Pan Pacific Championships and the Youth Olympics later this year, as well as competitions in Tahiti next year and the Commonwealth Youth Games.
Her father, Michael Khelan, expressed pride in his daughter’s achievements, giving thanks to God for her success.
He said the family’s sacrifices are beginning to pay off and encouraged Grace to remain humble, describing this as just the beginning of a greater journey.
