Ashford student Ricky Betar is set for stardom in the pool

Ashcroft student Ricky Betar already has a sway of swimming medals, but is aiming even higher.

IT’S midwinter, five o’clock in the morning, and the temperature is 5c as Ricky Betar dives into the outdoor pool to start two hours of training.

It’s a moment to test the resolve of any young sports star but the Ashcroft 12-year-old comes through with flying colours (mainly blue from the chill).

“I have never been so cold. I was suffering. I was numb,” he said.

“Luckily training hard helps keep us warm.”

But the sacrifice was well worth it. Ricky went on to win no fewer than seven medals at the recent NSW age championships, including four gold. His outstanding effort led to him being selected in the NSW Junior Shark squad.

But success doesn’t come without hard work. Ricky trains six sessions a week including three morning sessions before heading to Westfield Sports High School.

Ricky Betar doing his laps.

“If I do the training I know it will improve my times,” he said. “I feel good after it, sometimes a bit sore, but good.”

“Sometimes it’s hard on him,” said his mum Nori. “But so long as he enjoys it, that’s the main thing.

Ricky’s next goal is to qualify for the national age titles next year.

The Junior Sports Star awards are sponsored by Rebel.

This week’s JSS nominee Ricky Betar shows off some of his medals.