Finn Russ – NZ Swimming Championships
We have a champion in our midst at Te Puna Wai o Waipapa! Finn is a NZ Para swimmer (Classification S19 - Autism) and he represents the Selwyn Swim Club.
Finn recently competed in the NZ Swimming Championships, held at the Hawke’s Bay Aquatic Centre in April. This is the final national meet where NZ Olympic hopefuls are aiming to qualify for the Paris Olympics swimming team.
Finn had an outstanding meet, competing in five different events. Each event consists of heats, semis and final races. Finn’s achievement in these events is nothing short of outstanding, winning 4 golds and 1 silver medal. He also set a New Zealand S19 record in 3 events!
Finn’s final results were:
· 50m Freestyle - silver medal and a NZ S19 record
· 100m Freestyle – gold medal and a NZ S19 record
· 50m Butterfly – gold medal
· 200m Freestyle – gold medal and a NZ S19 record
· 50m Backstroke – gold medal
Finn was interviewed following his 200m Freestyle and was overjoyed with his results – you can see this interview here.
Ka mau te wehi Finn! We are so proud of you and your achievement!