After breaking the open men’s Southland 200m backstroke record in April, Joseph Koroiadi, of Murihiku Swimming Club, is now getting ready for two big challenges.
The first will be this weekend, when he travels to Blenheim to compete in the South Island Short Course Championships.
Then in September, the 17-year-old swimmer has been selected as one of 38 Kiwis to represent this country in the Tri-Series competition in Hawke’s Bay.
Joseph said it would be a milestone for him, as it would provide an opportunity to compete against young swimmers not only from New Zealand, but also Australia.
"First it was like a shock, I was like, ‘[compete against] Australia and representing New Zealand — that's pretty crazy’.
"But yeah, I’m really excited and hope September comes around really soon," he said.
Joseph has been training for eight years thanks to his mother, who signed him up for swimming lessons.
When coach Jeremy Duncan saw him in action in the pool, he gave him his card.
"I just love racing. I’m just motivated by racing, meeting new people across the country and the social side to swimming," Joseph said.
Coach Duncan was impressed with his evolution in the sport.
"We sort of basically took him as a wee fella and now here he is as a young adult.
"So it's been nice to see him just improve and love it ... He loves the sport and he's got some really good friends."
He hoped Joseph could be an inspiration for many others in the region.
"I think it's really good for our younger kids to be able to see that it is possible to do anything from Southland.
"Joe's one of many kids that we've had along the years swim at that meet, so it's fantastic."
