Africa-Press – Eswatini. The pool is heating up at the Region 5 Youth Games, and Eswatini’s young swimming sensations are right at the center of it. Representing the kingdom with pride and power, Luca Fraser and Hayley Hoy have made significant strides on Day 1 of the swimming events, moving into the finals of their respective races and bringing Eswatini closer to its first medals at this year’s Games.
Hayley Hoy has qualified for two finals: the 200-metre freestyle and 200-metre butterfly. Her strong and composed performances in the heats have turned her into a standout competitor in both events. Known for her powerful strokes and excellent pacing, Hayley now stands just one race away from making the podium not once, but twice a feat that would be monumental for Eswatini swimming.
In a remarkable highlight, Hayley set a new national record in the Girls 15–17 200m Butterfly, clocking a time of 2:24.75. She broke her own previous record of 2:31.27 set at the Nationals earlier in 2025, making her not only a finalist but also a record-breaking force in the pool.
Not to be outdone, Luca Fraser has also surged into the final of the 50-metre breaststroke. With his explosive start and clean technique, Luca is poised to challenge some of the region’s best young swimmers. His qualification marks a promising start to what could be a memorable campaign for Team Eswatini in the pool.
Speaking to this publication the communications officer for the EswatiniSports council Dumsaniexpressed his joy saying they are lookingforwardgetting more medals. “We are obviously over the moon. This is just the start of great things to come for the kingdom. We are looking forward to winning more medals.” Said Ntiwane.
Both athletes have proven that they are more than ready to compete at the highest level, and their progress has already lifted the spirits of the Eswatini camp. With three finals featuring Eswatini swimmers on Day 1, hopes are high that the country will open its medal account early in the competition.
As the finals approach, anticipation is mounting can Hayley and Luca turn these opportunities into medals? All signs point to a thrilling finish, with Eswatini watching closely and cheering loudly.
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