Two national lifesaving records, multiple medals, and a strong team performance set the tone for an exciting campaign in Swansea.
Swansea, Wales (14 July 2025) – Woowww!! What an incredible Day 1 performance at the RLSS Commonwealth Championship in Swansea. South Africa kicked things off with high energy, determination, and a line of incredible performances, securing two brand-new South African records and making huge waves in various categories.
The energy in the air was electric, and every single participant gave their all. In the 200m obstacle event, Neil Holtzhausen took silver in the development division, while Connor Bagley grabbed bronze right behind him. In the Senior Women’s category, Keira van Heerden smashed a new SA record and earned a bronze medal. Another incredible moment was when Aiden Bornman also brought a bronze for the senior men.
One of the biggest highlights of the day had to be the 200m junior obstacle relay. Neil, Gian Moolman, Matthew Pincente, and Connor joined forces to bring home the gold, and yep, they set a new South African record while they were at it! Their teamwork and focus were absolutely next level.
They kept that momentum going with Liam Schweitzer and Gian Moolman taking gold in the Junior Line Throw. Neil was not done yet, as he also picked up silver in the 100m Manikin Tow with Tube. How could we forget about Savannah Voigt, who blew everyone away with her gold-winning swim in the senior women’s 100m manikin tow.
By the end of Day 1, the results spoke for themselves. The national team was sitting in 2nd place overall with 145 points (just behind England,) and the development team is right up there in 4th place with 132 points. Not bad at all for the opening day!
Whether it was on the podium or cheering each other on from the sidelines, they showed what the South African spirit is all about. Day 1 set the tone, and now we wait and see what the rest of the competition brings and if South Africa will continue making waves.
You can follow along on all the happenings at the championship via Lifesaving South Africa here.
Sources: Lifesaving South Africa
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