A remarkable nine-year-old athlete from Lincoln, Rebecca Batista, is motivating her peers to embrace sports and maintain an active lifestyle. Representing Lincoln and the wider Lincolnshire region, Rebecca excels in multiple sports, including tennis, swimming, gymnastics, and athletics. Her dedication is evident as she trains six days a week, showcasing a passion for physical activity that inspires both her friends and family.
Her father, Paulo Batista, emphasizes Rebecca’s enthusiasm for sports, stating, “Since she was little, she has shown interest in sports, and a multitude of sports.” Balancing family time with Rebecca’s rigorous training and competition schedule can be challenging, but Paulo and his wife are committed to supporting their daughter’s aspirations. He remarked, “We try to give to Rebecca what I didn’t have from my parents. Times are different, the country is different. It’s a lot of time to dedicate.”
Rebecca’s five-year-old brother also shares her athletic spirit, enjoying swimming and athletics alongside her. Among her various pursuits, Rebecca has a particular fondness for tennis and swimming, which she describes as her “loves.” Her personal motto, “Little but Limitless,” reflects her belief that size does not restrict capability. She confidently stated, “It doesn’t matter how small you are — if you believe in yourself, you can do anything.”
This inspiring young athlete has not only achieved personal success but has also motivated her friends by sharing her medals at school. According to Paulo, “Her energy, determination, and talent shine through in every sport she takes on. Whether she’s serving an ace on the tennis court, gliding through the pool, or performing flips in gymnastics, Rebecca gives 100 percent with a smile that shows just how much she loves sport.”
Rebecca is actively involved in several competitive sports organizations, including the Lincoln Tennis Academy, where she competes in tournaments representing Lincoln and Lincolnshire. Additionally, she is a member of the Pentagua Swimming Club and Lincoln Wellington Athletics Club, and she trains at the Witham Hill Gymnastics Club, where she has secured numerous first and second-place finishes across various events.
Looking ahead, Paulo highlighted Rebecca’s ambitions, stating, “Her goal is to keep learning, improving, and enjoying every sport she takes part in. She dreams of representing her region, and one day, perhaps her country, in top competitions.” As Rebecca continues to develop her skills, the family faces the logistical challenge of overlapping competitions, requiring careful planning around which events she can enter.
In light of her impressive achievements and potential, the Batista family is also exploring opportunities for local sponsorship to support Rebecca’s athletic journey. With her determination and talent, Rebecca Batista stands as a powerful example of how young athletes can inspire their communities and encourage others to pursue their passions through sport.
