Nuuk Swimming Club Shines at Reykjavik International Games and World Cup
Photo: Nuuk Swimming Club
In a remarkable display of talent and determination, the Nuuk Swimming Club returned from the Reykjavik International Games and the Danish swimming championships with a bounty of medals, elevating the profile of Greenland’s swimming scene.
Fourteen-year-old Ronja Wraae Würtz emerged as a standout star, clinching a gold medal at the Danish championships. Her journey to success began in Reykjavik, where she triumphed in the youth competitions, securing gold in the butterfly events for both 50, 100, and 200 meters. Ronja also made a mark in the finals against seasoned adult competitors, earning silver in the 200-meter butterfly and bronze in the 100-meter butterfly.
Photo: Nuuk Swimming Club
Caption: Ronja Wraae Würtz proudly holds her gold medal from the Danish championships.
With her impressive performance in Reykjavik, Ronja secured three gold medals, one silver, and a bronze. Representing Greenland with pride, the Nuuk Swimming Club donned their Erfalasorput gear—caps, jerseys, and bags—throughout the event.
A Historic Win
After basking in her Reykjavik success, Ronja and teammate Ragna Sander Granlien moved on to the Danish championships. There, Ronja made history by claiming the gold in the 200-meter butterfly, becoming the first swimmer from Greenland to earn a gold medal at the World Championships.
“We had confidence in our swimmers’ training and mental readiness, but honestly, we didn’t expect such outstanding results in Reykjavik or the gold medal at the World Championships,” said Ane Wraae Nielsen, a member of the coaching team.
Ronja has her sights set on the Island Games in the Faroe Islands in 2027, motivated to shave off another ten seconds from her current record. “Participating in the Island Games in Orkney last year was an incredible experience. There’s a unique camaraderie among all the island nations, and I’m eager to return and compete for a medal for Greenland,” she stated.
Building Bonds and Fostering Growth
The club’s success was not only measured in medals but also in the sense of unity it fostered among its young members. Ane Wraae Nielsen highlighted the importance of the close-knit environment that training camps and competitions provided. “The athletes motivate one another, pushing each other to excel while witnessing both personal and collective growth.”
“We take immense pride in what our athletes have achieved and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. These moments stay with them forever—no one can take that away,” she added.
This journey of success was bolstered by the support of various organizations, including the West Nordic Capital Foundation, the Greenland Foundation at NATA, the Helene and Svend Junge Foundation, Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq, and the Greenland Sports Association. Their backing made the athletes’ participation in these prestigious events possible, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the community.