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Team SA swimming poster boy and Olympian Pieter Coetze set a new FISU University Games record on Friday night in Berlin, setting him up for a potential podium finish.
The University of Pretoria student swam an impressive 52.18 in the men’s 100m backstroke, which is not only a record at the meet but in Africa too.
Coetze carries the hopes of the country, and indeed, securing the continent’s first medal at the event.
Speaking after the semifinal race, the 21-year-old reacted to achieving yet another milestone with the final scheduled for Saturday night.
"I'm very happy with my time and my swim, and I hope to swim even faster in the final. It's awesome to break the FISU record because it was once held by a legendary Japanese swimmer whom I looked up to.
"It's amazing to see the support in the stands and on social media, so a big thank you to everyone," said the FISU record breaker.
Meanwhile, there were other young swimmers likely to be inspired by Coetze at the FISU Games and beyond.
Olwethu Manan spoke about his debut in the competition.
"It was amazing to see everyone swim their hearts out. We had a couple guys dipping below the 48' mark in the 100m, so I'm just happy to be a part of this awesome team," said the young man.
A real old hand at this is, Cape Town-born Michael Houlie, a breaststroke swimmer who has returned for his third FISU Games is offering guidance to rookies.
"This is my 3rd FISU Games, and my race is the 50m breaststroke, which is on Monday, I might swim a couple of relays before then.
"I have achieved a medal before at these games, so I am hoping that I can add to that here in Germany."
