At twelve years old, swimming was my preferred sport. I remember the sheer delight that ran through me when my mother would attend my swimming galas, the enjoyment I would experience shopping for those hideous swimming caps (unbelievable, right?) and the thrill of coming first in a race.
At twelve years old, swimming was my preferred sport. I remember the sheer delight that ran through me when my mother would attend my swimming galas, the enjoyment I would experience shopping for those hideous swimming caps (unbelievable, right?) and the thrill of coming first in a race.
Once the hot summer swimming pool tiles and the sting of bees got to me I soon decided to stop swimming as a sport.
When turning the pages of “Unbelievable!”, an autobiography, co-written with writer, Myan Subrayan, about Chad Le Clos’ dedication to his family, to his sport, and to his dream, I felt inspired.
Much of the book deals with Chad being inspired by Michael Phelps and Le Clos tells of his father calling him to watch the 2004 Athens Olympics. It was at that moment that Le Clos told his family he wanted to be like Phelps. Today, all due to the gold medal he won for the 200m Butterfly at the Olympic Games, he has achieved that dream.
The book covers more than his swimming success. The press visited Penzance Primary School he attended, and interviewed Ellen Khanyile, the tea lady. Chad used to offer to carry her trays and do the washing up: He was not only an Olympic gold medal winner, but had the heart of gold too.
Witty insights into Chad’s life are included and his swimming regime is impressive.
Chad shares two lessons with the readers that have stood him in good stead: Never give up on your dreams and goals; and don't get carried away with pride.
The cover of the book shows Le Clos looking as good as ever.
And if that’s not enough to make you want to buy this book, then I don’t know what will.
The book is for sale at Van Schaik’s Bookstore in Grahamstown.
Be sure to enter the competition to stand a chance of winning a voucher to the value of R100.
WIN! WIN! WIN!
In what year did Chad Le Clos win his gold medal in the 200m butterfly event at the Olympic games? Email your answer to Sarah at sarah@grocotts.co.za with the answer in the subject title to stand a chance of winning a R100 voucher sponsored by Van Schaiks bookstore. The competition closes on 24 April at 1pm.
