Eleni Ruffolo has won too many titles to carry. Photo: Oliver Jacques.
Griffith North student Eleni Ruffolo has won three events at the local swim carnival and will now represent her school at the state championship in Sydney on 11 April.
The 10-year-old took out first place in the butterfly, freestyle and relay events, making her the age champion for the Griffith zone. She followed that up by also winning the relay at the Riverina Primary School Sports Association meet in Leeton, where she competed against a number of other Riverina schools.
“Eleni started swimming when she was just six months old. She works hard, swimming every week during the school term and every day when we are on holiday. We are proud of our little dolphin,” mum Vaggie said.
Eleni is already 160 cm tall and almost the same height as Mum. Her long arms and legs give her an advantage in the pool, where she has won a string of titles over the past year.
Her brother Anthony said: “I can swim too but probably not as good as her. I’ve rarely competed, but if I did compete, I would also do well.”
Region caught up with Eleni to find out about her swimming success, role models, other sporting achievements and dream job.
What are your tactics when in a swimming race?
In long distance, I start slow and speed up towards the end. But in the sprints, I just go as fast as I can straight away.
Where do you swim?
I swim at the Aquatic Centre but when we holiday on the coast I love to swim at the beach.
Would you swim in Lake Wyangan?
No way. Too dirty.
How far can you swim without stopping?
I reckon about 400 metres.
Is there a food you like that gives you energy in the pool?
Pasta.
Do you play any other sports?
I love sports and also play netball, touch football and I do dancing.
I also do a lot of running, where I’ve also represented the Riverina.
I also played my first game in basketball this week.
What sort of dancing do you do?
I do everything. Ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, Acro and national.
Who are your role models?
My mum and dad. They cook for me, drive me to all my sporting events and encourage me.
Do you have a favourite teacher?
Ms Natalie Hipkiss.
What are your favourite subjects at school?
Sports and art.
Who is a famous person you most admire?
I don’t really have one. Probably my dad [Mauro]; he is famous is Griffith for his olive oil.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Either a teacher, dancer or a model. I really like fashion.
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