Rivers of gold can never be guaranteed but at least one athlete with east Auckland connections could secure gold in a Paris pool.
Despite winning gold (Women’s 100 metre Backstroke S8) at the Tokyo Paralympic Games, Tupou Neiufi isn’t resting on her laurels or leaving anything to chance as she prepares to defend her title.
“I want to be in my best racing condition in Paris – trust in the process and, hopefully, I will be able to deliver my best when it counts,” she says.
Tupou is also set to compete for a medal in 50m freestyle.
Although now competing for Pukekohe Swimming Club, she retains a solid cheering section from east Auckland.
“I started competitive swimming at Howick Pakuranga Swim Club (HPK) and I was there from 2010 right up until 2020,” Tupou confirmed following her win in Tokyo, 2021. “HPK still supports me… they’ve been amazing and helped shape me into the athlete I am today.”
Since her Paralympic debut (Rio 2016 – aged just 15), Tupou claimed a Commonwealth Games’ bronze (2022) as well as world championship medals. And yet, the path to selection has not run smoothly.
“It has been a challenging lead up to the games, but since nationals in April everything has started to click and I’m both happy and relieved to make my third NZ Paralympic team.”
No stranger to challenges, Tupou sustained a brain injury as a child – followed by hemiplegia, causing weakness in her left side – when hit by a car. However, weakness is not an issue when this skilful swimmer hits the water.
She is expected to prove an asset to the New Zealand Paralympic Team, Steve Johns (Swimming NZ) adds.
“We’re delighted to be able to add Tupou to our para swimming team. She is an experienced athlete who deserves her place and we can’t wait to see her in action.”
Tupou and her teammates, across a range of sports, will be in action in Paris from August 28 until September 8. For updates visit www.paralympics.org.nz.
