Paula van Zyl

Full Name: Paula Dayne Van Zyl
Date of Birth: 21 November 2002
Gender: Female
Place of Birth: Pretoria
Home Town: Newcastle KZN
Sporting Code: Swimming
Introduction to your sport: I started swimming through school and then my younger brother organised a coach for the two of us and I just carried on with swimming as I really enjoy it.
Career Achievements: I have had the privilege of going to Kenya to swim at their Nationals where I achieved 4 Gold medals and 1 Silver medal. It was at this event that I obtained International Classification. My highest achievement was when I won 3 Golds at World Games 2018 in Sang Cugat Spain. I placed 1st in 5 races but with the classification conversion calculations for disabilities I got 3 medals. I hold the Africa record for 200 IM, and the SA record for 50 Breaststroke.
Favourite food: Mom’s Lasagne
How do you spend your downtime: Reading, watching youtube video’s & listening to music
Instagram: zpaulavan & paulavanz
Specialist event/s: I generally swim 50 Free, 100 Free, 100 Back, 100 Breast and 200 IM.
Importance of the EADP for you: I feel it is a vital part of my swimming career because it forces me to train correctly and eat correctly and stay healthy. When I stay on track I know I am not disappointing the EADP..
Favourite drink: Water – for sure!!!