From Fiji Sun Online (2 June 2018)

Erasito, Yalimaiwai Impress

By Karalaini Tavi

Hefu Erasito, 14, and Temafa Yalimaiwai 16, are out to make a mark for Marist Brothers High School in the National Schools Swimming Championship.

The two set new records in their individual events at the Damodar Aquatic Centre in Suva yesterday.

Erasito broke the record set by Calum Lobendahn in 2015 in the 400metre freestyle with a time of 4 minutes 42 secs.

Yalimaiwai broke the record set by Taichi Vakasama in 2016 in the U16 400m freestyle with a time of 4 minutes 26 secs.

Erasito said it was a special moment for him to break the record and the Rotuman native will be participating in the 200m butterfly, backstroke and 100m butterfly.

“I’m happy to be in the team with one of our national reps. It has always been my goal to be like Temafa. It was quite an honour for me to break the record and celebrate with him,” Erasito said.

“It has always been my dream since I was five to swim in national competitions and win gold. At first I was nervous but I am really happy with the win.”

Meanwhile, Yalimaiwai was surprised to have broken Vakasama’s record and he aims for more national records.

“I was just aiming to win, I did not expect to break the record and for this is a bonus,” the Matuku, Lau native said

“Watching my cousins swim in international competition is what inspired me to take up the sport and I have enjoyed it since. This is just the start and we are hoping to win more gold for our school.”

Yalimaiwai will also be participating in the 100m, 200m back­stroke and 50m breaststroke.

Edited by Osea Bola