Nine Tanzanian swimmers to compete in Kenya aquatics
Tanzanian Heydleen Magashi compete in a past swimming event. PHOTO | FILE
What you need to know:
- The swimmers, hailing from various clubs across Tanzania Mainland, are currently undergoing intensive training in preparation for the prestigious event.
Dar es Salaam. Nine members of Tanzania's swimming squad are set to compete in the Kenya Aquatics National Championships scheduled to take place on February 14 and 15 at the Kasarani Aquatics Pool in Nairobi.
The Tanzanian contingent includes Filbertha Demello, Romeo-Mihaly Mwaipasi, Leyna Borega, Heydleen Magashi, Ethan Makalla, Nathan Sabibi, William Ngwandu, Noel Mohongo, and Rahma Ramadhani.
The swimmers, hailing from various clubs across Tanzania Mainland, are currently undergoing intensive training in preparation for the prestigious event.
Tanzania Swimming Association (TSA) Technical Director Amina Mfaume said that the primary objective of competing in the event is to achieve qualifying times for upcoming long-course (50 meters) contests.
She said that the initiative is designed to prepare Tanzanian swimmers for the rigors of international competitions and enhance their performances on a larger stage.
“Some swimmers are training with their respective clubs, while others are training at the Champion Rise Swimming Pool at Shaaban Robert Secondary School ahead of the competition,” Mfaume said.
The team is expected to depart for Kenya on February 13 and will return to Tanzania a day after the championships conclude. She noted that this marks the second time Tanzanian swimmers will participate in Kenya’s national aquatics championships.
“The first participation was last year, when three swimmers competed under the High Performance Training (HPT) programme. This year, we are sending a larger team, which highlights the growing interest and commitment to develop swimming in Tanzania,” she added.
Kenya’s aquatics governing body has extended invitations to all interested countries, with competitors being required to adhere to the stipulated competition regulations. The Tanzanian swimmers are expected to compete against top talents from Kenya and other invited nations, making it a valuable experience for their growth and exposure.
Mfaume further appreciated the crucial role played by parents and stakeholders in making this opportunity possible.
“Some parents have collaborated with TSA under my guidance to ensure the swimmers get this invaluable exposure.
“This initiative is a stepping stone for them to achieve long-course qualifying times and prepare for higher-level competitions,” she said.
