Pearse qualified second in his men’s S10 heat with a time of 58.23 and will race from lane three in tonight’s final.
The race will be broadcast on 7mate and 7plus from 7.40pm onward for a scheduled 7.46pm start.
After seven days waiting on the sidelines since the Games’ opening ceremony, a “very nervous” Pearse, speaking after his swim, was just happy to finally represent his country.
“The nerves were real,” Pearse said.
“It was my first (international) swim in two years.
“It’s pretty special. Not many people get the opportunity to represent their country at the international level.
“For me, it’s always been my childhood dream to be in the green and gold, and for that to be true now is amazing.”
The “Boy from Bamawm” was pleased to be through to the final, but said he’s got more in the tank for the final burst.
And his long wait before hitting the pool may also prove to be an advantage.
“Look I’m not going to be disappointed in the time,” Pearse said.
“I was hoping to be a bit faster, but it’s only the heat swim; medals aren’t won in heats.
“It’s been tough, but I feel it will also benefit me because I’ve had this extra time to taper up and recover.”
Pearse sent a greeting to his family back in Australia, before leaving to prepare for one of the biggest swims of his life.
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