Brothers pair up for Open Water World Cup events

Balvert brothers, Troy and Luke, are partnering up for the upcoming FINA 10km Marathon Swimming World Cup meets in China and Hong Kong.

Youngest brother Troy (St Peters) will be competing in the next two legs of the World Cup with Luke there as his coach, support and feeder.

“We have always helped each other out. As a family we have been very tight knit and keen to see each other succeed to the best of our abilities,” Luke said.

“Growing up we were always into as many sports as possible - rugby, football, touch or cricket - but swimming was where we both enjoyed being the most, pushing each other when we could.”

With Luke also having a background in swimming Troy says this adds to him being a great partner at the events.

“He understands and listens to what I prefer or need for racing and race preparation,” Troy said.

“He is a very organised person and is well aware of what I require and of my dedication to my swimming. 

“Outside of the swimming aspect of the trip it will be great to have Luke to share everything.”

Troy competed in two legs of the World Cup earlier in the year in Canada where he finished 16^th and 21^st but will be aiming for stronger performances in China and Hong Kong.

“I will be gaining experience in open water swimming and also getting the vital world class racing experience. I am aiming towards top 15 in the swims.

“Having the opportunity to swim against Olympic and world champions like in Canada is a great experience; there is so much to be learnt from the older more experienced swimmers.”

His older brother admires his dedication to the sport and his perseverance in reaching his goals.

“I know what he has sacrificed and put himself through to get to this stage. This is his dream to make it on the world stage in open water swimming (and Rio 2016) so to be part of this journey will be amazing.”

Fellow open water swimmer Charlotte Webby (Aquabladz New Plymouth) will also join the Balvert brothers for the final meet of the 2014 Open Water World Cup in Hong Kong.

Webby competed in the open water competition at the Pan Pacific Championships this year where she finished 6^th.

The next event of the FINA 10km Marathon Swimming World Cup is on 12^th October at Lake Qiando, Chun’an, China with the final event to be held on 18^th October at Repulse Bay, Hong Kong.