As the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics continue, Tongan-Kiwi swimmer Tupou Neiufi is preparing to defend her gold medal at the upcoming Paralympics. Neiufi, who will compete in the 50m Freestyle S8, previously won gold in the Women’s 100m S8 Backstroke at the Tokyo Games. This marks her third Paralympic appearance.
Neiufi proudly represents both New Zealand and her Tongan heritage. She told Ma’a Brian Sagala on PMN’s Pacific Days, “I’ve had a lot of people come up to me and ask ‘Oh, are you from Brazil?’ or ‘Are you from all these different countries?’ I’m like, ‘No, MMT baby!’,” she said. “It’s really cool getting to travel around the world and be able to share my culture and put us on the world stage.” Neiufi, who was severely injured in a car accident as a toddler, has channeled her energy into swimming since age nine, initially recommended as a form of rehab.
Reflecting on her journey, Neiufi, now 23, said, “Because I’m older now, it’s been eight years since my first Paralympics at Rio. I’m more happy to be there, do some fast racing, and just have some fun.” Despite the challenges of managing her weight during the off-season, she remains focused and determined.
Swimming NZ CEO Steve Johns is pleased with Neiufi’s addition to the Para-swimmers, “She is an experienced athlete who deserves her place on the Paris 2024 team.”
Neiufi, who trains intensively and is set to depart for Paris in two weeks, also hinted at exploring other sports in the future. “I might even have a little peek at some other sports,” she said. “But for now, I’m just focusing on swimming.” The women’s heats begin on August 29 at Paris La Defense Arena.
Neiufi won silver in the event at Rio Paralympics in 2016 and also silver at the world champs in London two years ago.
