A 12 year old Dubai based swimmer has impressed at the recent Italian National Swimming Championships. Uptown School student Christopher Dufra celebrated double success with a stunning performance during his trip to Europe.
Dufra was victorious in the 100m Individual Medley for his age group, with a time of 1:14:07. He also took top spot in the 100m Backstroke with a time of 1:12:11.
Originally from Italy, Christopher now swims for Uptown School and Hamilton Aquatics. He told GYS: “I’m 12 years old. I’m a student at Uptown School, I’m delighted to be a member of the Uptown swimming squad. I started swimming when I was four years old in Italy. When I was six they offered me a spot in a higher level squad in a club called Arcoveggio DLF.
He continued: “I moved to Dubai about a year and a half ago and I now swim for Hamilton Aquatics Dubai. I train six times a week, so it’s hard work. At present my favourite events to swim are 50m, 100m and 200m backstroke.”
When asked about his influences, Christopher said: “I don’t have a specific idol. I like a lot of swimmers and their way of racing. When I watch them racing I try to pick up a lot of things to improve my swimming. On March 11th of this year I participated in the Italian Nationals Uisp, winning in both individual medley and backstroke. It felt good to win and it was a proud moment because the hard work paid off. In the future I would like to become an Olympic champion in the 100 and 200 backstroke.”
Sarah Wakeling from the Uptown School PE department was quick to offer her congratulations. She said: "An amazing achievement, we are very proud of our Italian Champion. Well done Christopher!"
Congratulations to Christopher from all at GYS. We look forward to following your journey as you pursue your dreams.