FILIPINO IRANIAN Micaela Jasmine Mojdeh made a strong debut in the seniors division, reaching the finals of two events at the 2024 World Aquatics Swimming World Cup third leg in Singapore.

The 18-year-old Mojdeh started her campaign by advancing to the women's 200-meter butterfly finals on the opening day. She clocked two minutes and 16.58 seconds to secure a spot alongside seven top-notch swimmers, including SEA Games gold medalist Xiandi Chua.

In the finals, Mojdeh finished sixth with a time of 2:16.58, while Australia's Britanny Castelluzzo took gold with 2:03.44. Chua ranked seventh with 2:14.10.

Dubbed as the "water beast," Mojdeh's impressive performance demonstrates her potential in international competitions.

"Competing in the World Cup is already an achievement for me. But qualifying for the finals was an incredible joy, as I got to compete alongside top swimmers from different countries," Mojdeh shared.

On the second day, Mojdeh, the Philippine national junior record holder, shone again by reaching the women's 400-m individual medley finals. She clocked 5:04.19, while American 2024 Paris Olympics silver medalist Katie Grimes took gold with 4:24.19.

"This experience was amazing, and I learned so much. The seniors division has a different level of competition. I'll work harder to improve my times for future international competitions," Mojdeh of Behrouz Elite Swimming Team said.

Mojdeh, an incoming freshman at University of Southern California, expressed her gratitude to her coaches, Philippine Aquatics Inc. (PAI), Philippine Sports Commission and teammates for their support.

"This experience will fuel my growth as an athlete, enabling me to proudly represent the Philippines in future competitions," Mojdeh stressed.

Mojdeh is optimistic that the PAI will sustain its excellent program to further strengthen swimming in the country and restore the Philippines' glory as a regional powerhouse.

"We just need to support the association's program and unite to achieve our future goals. Nothing is impossible when everyone works together," added Mojdeh.

After her impressive World Cup debut, Mojdeh sets her sights on the 2024 Asean Age-Group Championships, taking place in December in Bangkok, Thailand.

"This is my final year in the Asean Age Group, and I hope to leave a lasting impression. I'll give my all to contribute to the team's success," she ended.