From a young age, Kayla Swarts has always been drawn to the outdoors and sports, where her competitive spirit, rooted in family, pushed her to excel. With a deep love for athletics and hockey, her journey as an athlete began almost as soon as she could walk, driven by her desire to constantly improve and be the best version of herself.
“Sharing the Olympic experience with my brother made it all the more special.”
Q: What was it like to compete at the Paris Olympics? How did that experience compare to other competitions you’ve participated in?
A: Representing my country and family at the biggest sporting event in history was honestly something I used to think one can only dream of, but having it come to life felt so surreal. The fact I could share this moment with my brother just made it so much more special. It doesn’t compare to any competition I’ve been to before. The atmosphere we as a team created, starting from the change room going onto the field, brought me so much pride. Being starstruck – seeing my idols strolling around in the Olympic village – and, mostly, the amount of preparation and sacrifice that went into the Games, made it all worthwhile. It finally paid off when I played my first match against Argentina, singing the anthem, realising that a lifelong dream had just come true.
Q: What was it like going to the Olympics with your brother, Wayde? How has his success and world record influenced or inspired your own athletic career?
A: Building up to the Paris Olympics, I often thought back to the moment my brother broke the record in 2016. Just seeing how ecstatic and proud my parents were, and the way it made me feel watching from the stands, made me realise that one day I too want to strive towards competing at the Olympics and bring that sense of joy and pride to my family. It often did get tough during the Olympic preparation, but having someone in my corner who’s overcoming similar obstacles and battles, who’s already been to two Olympic Games, and who shares advice is truly a blessing and not something many people are privileged to have.
Q: How did it feel to represent South Africa at such a prestigious event like the Olympics? What does wearing the national colours on the world stage mean to you personally?
A: Representing my country felt surreal and an absolute honour. Wearing the national colours, especially alongside my brother, made the whole experience even more meaningful.
Q: How has growing up and training in Bloemfontein shaped you as an athlete? Do you feel that the city’s environment and community played a role in your development?
A: I think that the fact that Bloemfontein is such a small town helps eliminate any extra distractions and hassles. Weekends are usually filled with sporting events, and during the week, my parents didn’t have to travel far distances to get to training or attend any extra sessions if needed.
Q: What are your future plans in your sporting career? Do you have your sights set on the next Olympics or any other major goals?
A: After attending the 2024 Olympics, it definitely sparked a flame to strive towards the Games in LA 2028. I now know more of what is required to compete at the highest level and take all the highs and lows as learning lessons while I strive towards that goal.
Q: What advice would you give to young, aspiring athletes, especially those from South Africa, who dream of reaching the Olympic stage one day?
A: To stay committed to their dreams, never give up on yourself. Regardless of your background or current situation, you never know when things may turn in your favour. No one can take your hard work and the extra effort that you put in away from you. It’s all in your hands, so don’t wait for the right opportunities to come to you – create them.
Q: Outside of sports, what are some of your personal interests or passions? How do you balance your life as an elite athlete with other aspects of your life?
A: I really enjoy spending quality time with my family. My brother and I often take trips to go fishing, which is always a good getaway to relax from the everyday routine.
