Tové van Zyl

Hometown

Pretoria

Activity

Lifesaving, Swimming and Surfing

Speedo Ambassador - Tové van Zyl

Tové is a South African lifesaver, swimmer and surfer from Pretoria.

Tell us about your earliest swimming memory.

When I won my first inter-house gala at the age of 7, I was swimming backstroke and beat all the other 10-year-olds.

Why is swimming such a special sport for you?

I grew up swimming. My mom was a swimmer. She is a swimming teacher. It's so special that I feel no other sport can compare. The discipline I've learnt and all the hard work that goes into it. That's why I opened up my own learn to swim school. I love giving back.

Which of your achievements are you the proudest of and why?

My proudest achievement was making the South African lifesaving team. It's been a dream of mine since the age of 10. I made the team for the first time when I was 21, which is quite old for swimming. But for me, it just shows that you have to push through no matter what.

How do you stay motivated throughout the season?

I set goals for myself, even if it is small goals, like improving my PB at a gala.

What are your goals for the year ahead?

My goal is to make the 2022 lifesaving world team and the German cup team.

What do you do to prepare for a race?

I pray to God to keep me calm and give my absolute best.

Apart from swimming, what do you do for fun?

I love spending time with my family.

Why are you excited to be a part of the Speedo family?

I love Speedo and everything it stands for. Being able to wear a brand that supports so many aquatic events is amazing! Speedo was my first costume and goggles I swam in.