Since its launch in 2014, the World Aquatics Scholarship Programme has provided financial and technical support to talented yet under-resourced aquatic athletes. Now in its 11th year, the programme currently supports 50 swimmers, 15 open water swimmers, 8 divers, 7 artistic swimming duets, and, for the first time, 6 water polo players.

As the international open water season kicked off in Somabay, Egypt, we spoke with four open water scholarship athletes training at Azura Florida Aquatics, the World Aquatics Training Centre in Davie, Florida (USA).

First up in this five-part interview series with the Azura team is Cielo Peralta. In addition to competing in open water, the 18-year-old is the reigning Paraguayan 800m national champion and national record holder (9:27.45). 

World Aquatics: Cielo, here we are in sunny Egypt, just before the start of the World Aquatics Open Water Swimming World Cup season. This is a big moment, and I believe it’s your first senior World Cup. How does it feel?

Cielo Peralta: Yes! This is my first big World Cup. I competed in the Junior World Championships last year, but this is my first time at this level. It’s a huge opportunity, and I’m really excited.

World Aquatics: How has your training and preparation been leading into this event?

Cielo: We’ve been training hard with Azura, both last year and this year. It’s been intense, but training here in Egypt has been great—the weather is nice, and the pool is beautiful. Everything feels set for a great competition.

World Aquatics: Have you seen any swimmers here who were your idols growing up?

Cielo: Yes, of course! It’s incredible to be around Olympic swimmers. When I see them, I just think, “Wow!” It’s inspiring to be competing alongside them.

World Aquatics: You’re part of the World Aquatics Scholarship Programme. How has that experience been for you?

Cielo: It’s been life-changing. Training in Florida was a dream come true for me. The scholarship gave me the chance to improve both as a swimmer and as a person. I’m really grateful for this opportunity.

World Aquatics: What was the transition like from Paraguay to training in Florida with Azura?

Cielo: The weather is actually quite similar—both are warm, though Florida has more rain at times. But being in Florida has been an amazing experience.

World Aquatics: What’s it like training with the Azura programme? How have the coaches and facilities helped you improve?

Cielo: My first year with Azura was incredible—I achieved my best times and competed in many events. Training with the team is tough but rewarding. The coaches push us to be our best, reminding us that every day is an opportunity to grow.

World Aquatics: What’s the team dynamic like? Azura has athletes from all over the world—does it feel like a family?

Cielo: Yes, absolutely. Many of us are far from home, but we support each other like family. The team environment is really special, and the coaches always encourage us.

World Aquatics: Can you share a memorable experience with your teammates?

Cielo: Every day in training is a new experience. And even as I am living my dream, you have to have a great team around your. We work hard, but we also enjoy the journey together. There are so many fun and challenging moments that I’ll always remember training here. They are helping me do my best—each and every day.

World Aquatics: Even when you’re following your dream, there must be challenges. How do you handle the tough days?

Cielo: Definitely, training is hard, and everyone is pushing to be their best. But that’s what helps you improve—challenging yourself every day, refining your technique, and staying committed.

World Aquatics: 2025 is a big year! There’s the World Junior Championships, the World Championships in Singapore, and the Pan American Junior Championships. What are your upcoming goals and aspirations?

Cielo: Yes, there are so many important competitions ahead! The Pan American Juniors will be in Paraguay, which is very special for me and my country. It’s a big opportunity, and I want to represent Paraguay well.

World Aquatics: Finally, do you have any advice for athletes considering applying for the World Aquatics Scholarship Programme for 2026?

Cielo: Yes! Enjoy every moment, give your best every day, and take advantage of every opportunity to improve. Every day is a big opportunity, and the Scholarship programme may be the way to get the best out of yourself.

World Aquatics: Excellent! Thank you very much, Cielo, and good luck!

Postscript

At the World Aquatics Open Water Swimming World Cup 2025 opener in Somabay (EGY), Cielo finished fourth of the Americas competitors and 45th overall and 8th in the Junior Ranking.