BeyondBooks: ‘My parents have been my greatest supporters’

She has been interested in swimming since childhood and would often visit a nearby pool with her family. Back then, learning how to swim was more recreational. But things changed when she came in Class IX, and she learnt three strokes: Freestyle, backstroke, and breaststroke. And the result? She won the second position at the district level. Meet Niyati Khare, a Class XI student at Apeejay School, Sector 15, Faridabad.

In an impromptu interview, this PCB student with Applied Mathematics, who aspires to become a research scientist, shares how she manages her academics with her passion for swimming, among other things.

Which swimming stroke is your favourite and why?

Breaststroke is my favourite because I find it easier than the other two strokes I have learned. I feel comfortable while swimming in this style.

How do you balance academics with your passion for swimming?

Our swimming practice takes place at school before classes begin. I practise there and then attend my regular classes. This schedule helps me devote time to swimming without affecting my studies.

Did you always plan to participate in swimming competitions?

Initially, I took up swimming simply because I liked it and wanted to learn. I had not thought about participating in competitions. After I learnt the three strokes in Class IX, I was told that I could compete. I represented the academy at my first district-level competition, but didn’t win. However, the event gave me valuable experience.

How did you prepare for the district-level competition?

I began practising, and my teachers and coaches helped me improve my breaststroke. Their guidance prepared me for the district-level competition, where I secured second place. It was the first time I had won a prize in a swimming competition.

How did you feel when your name was announced?

I felt extremely happy. I had practised at school for only about two months that year, so winning second place was a significant achievement for me. It also motivated me to practise harder, improve my stroke and reduce my swimming time.

What challenges did you face while preparing for the competition?

Competitive swimming required me to step outside my comfort zone and build my stamina. Correct technique was equally important. Strength alone is not enough if the stroke is incorrect. My swimming coaches and teachers helped me correct my technique and increase my speed, which enabled me to perform better.

Who has supported you throughout your swimming journey?

My parents have been my greatest supporters. When I began learning swimming in Class IX, they enrolled me in classes and took me for an hour of practice every day. My swimming coaches and teachers have also supported me greatly. They taught me how to swim, helped me improve my technique and guided me in increasing my speed.

What are your future goals in swimming?

This year, I participated in the district-level competition and was selected for the state level. I now need to practise harder, increase my speed and prepare well for the next stage.