Moesha Johnson (left) achieves silver at 2019 Summer Universiade
Swimming sensation Moesha Johnson has claimed the silver medal in the women’s 1500m freestyle at the 2019 Summer Universiade in Napoli, Italy.
Biomedical science student Moesha, 21, is supported through Southern Cross University’s Elite Student Athlete Program, and was thrilled to achieve silver for her efforts at the World University Games, as reported by .
Qualifying second fastest in the heats the day before, Johnson flew out of the blocks in the first 300m before consolidating to produce a time of 16:20.00, finishing only behind Waka Kobori of Japan (16:16.33), and ahead of Molly Ann Kowal (16:20.99) of the United States of America who won the bronze.
It was a battle of endurance for the health student, having to navigate her way through a tough schedule which involved heats taking place the morning prior.
“It was a new experience racing heats, we don’t race heats in the distance events in Australia, so you’ve just got to take it as the field goes,” Moesha said.
“You’ve just got to kind of wing-it I guess, but still be able to control your pace but also be prepared to go out harder or back off a little bit.
“I’m pretty relieved to just get through my race and race a solid time, and to come home with a medal is pretty awesome.”
Johnson becomes the second Australian medallist at Napoli2019, after Sydney University’s William Yang claimed gold in the men’s 50m butterfly on night three and the 88th Australian swimmer to collect a medal at a Summer Universiade.
Southern Cross University Sport & Recreation Officer Dave Graham said he was incredibly proud of Moesha’s achievement for the University and Australia on the international sporting stage.
