Young Maltese Swimmer Ella Fenech Attard Making Waves
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Loading... - Fiona Walsh
- 19 Mar 2025
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Ella Fenech Attard, a remarkable young swimmer from Malta, is making significant strides on the international stage with her talent and unwavering determination. Currently training in the UAE at one of the top swimming academies, Ella has already made her mark by setting an impressive 13 national age records at just 14 years old.
Ella's recent accomplishments showcase her growing prowess in the sport. At the end of 2024, she broke three national age group records in various categories: the 400m Individual Medley Long Course in Abu Dhabi, the 100m Individual Medley Short Course in Dubai, and the 200m Butterfly Short Course twice during the Maltese National Championships.
Her performance at the Abu Dhabi Swim for “Life International Championship” was another significant milestone. Competing against over 1,000 swimmers from more than 50 academies worldwide, Ella secured a silver medal and two bronze medals while proudly representing Malta. The medals were presented by the UAE Ambassador to Malta, Ms. Camilleri Calleja. Additionally, Ella had the incredible opportunity to meet Adam Peaty, a six-time Olympic champion, further fueling her aspirations for greatness.
A Remarkable Journey
Ella's journey in swimming began at the tender age of three, where her natural talent quickly became evident, particularly in the Freestyle and Butterfly strokes. This led her to pursue rigorous training under professional coaches. Her parents, Josef and Maria, have been instrumental in supporting her dreams and aspirations.
Beyond her national records, Ella has made a name for herself in various international competitions. She won gold in the 400m Freestyle at the Sharks Swimming Cup in Bulgaria, competing against 873 athletes. Ella also earned gold medals in Dresden, Germany, in the 200m Freestyle, and in Serbia in the 800m Freestyle. During the World Swimming Games in London, she struck four gold medals, which ultimately led to her being recognized by a leading swimming academy in the UAE. These accomplishments highlight her versatility and commitment to the sport.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite her success, Ella faces significant challenges due to the limited professional services and facilities available for athletes in Malta. With only three main pools catering to numerous athletes, including those in water polo and synchronized swimming, training opportunities can be scarce. However, Ella's international exposure, made possible by her parents' dedication, has been crucial in honing her skills and preparing her for competition.
A New Milestone in Ella’s Journey
Ella's relentless pursuit of excellence has recently led her to a significant milestone in her career. She has been awarded the prestigious “Malta Sports Scholarship,” an honor that will allow her to transition into professional training in the UAE. As Ella expressed, “This opportunity is a goal I have worked relentlessly towards, and it marks the next step of my amazing journey. It is my hope that this achievement will also contribute towards the advancement of sports in Malta.”
This scholarship, awarded by the Ministry of Education, Sport, Youth Research, and Innovation, not only acknowledges Ella’s dedication but also paves the way for her to elevate her training and competition, strengthening her foundation as she aims for greater international recognition.
Ella's aspirations include qualifying for top-tier international competitions and raising the profile of swimming in Malta. She credits her achievements to her professional coaches, her parents’ unwavering support, and her disciplined approach to training and nutrition.
As she continues to break barriers and set new records, Ella Fenech Attard stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes in Malta and beyond. Her journey is a testament to the power of talent, perseverance, and a strong support system, proving that with dedication and hard work, dreams can indeed become a reality.
