The Bank Windhoek/Namibia Aquatic Sports Federation (NASFED) Long Course Swimming Championships concluded yesterday at the Olympia Swimming Pool in Windhoek, after getting underway on Wednesday.
The championships featured 230 of Namibia’s top swimmers, representing clubs from Windhoek, Swakopmund, Walvis Bay and Oranjemund, competing for national titles and breaking multiple records.
Patrick Durand set a new record in the 12-and-under 1500 metre (m) freestyle, clocking 19:16.38. In the 15 to 16 age group, the 200m female medley relay team broke the record with a time of 2:10.13, while the male team followed suit with a new record of 1:51.85. The 200m freestyle relay in the same age group also produced record-breaking performances, with the girls recording 1:56.38 and the boys 1:40.86.
According to NASFED vice president David Nell, the five-day championships were a success, with an impressive turnout and notable improvements from the athletes.
“The athletes improved on their swimming times, which is always great to see, and a few records have been broken, showcasing the swimmers’ hard work and dedication,” Nell said.
Janis Stergidis, head coach of Dolphins Swimming Club, said his athletes consistently strive to lead in medals, times and records, while focusing on improving their overall performances.
“Everything that our athletes do at the Long Course Championships is building toward the national championships in South Africa,” Stergidis said.
One of the standout performers, Oliver Durand, claimed more than five gold medals in his individual events and walked away with a trophy. He said the competition went well for him and serves as a benchmark at the start of the season to assess where he can improve going forward.
Jessica Humphrey of Aqua Swimming and Fitness Club described the Long Course Championships as a stepping stone toward bigger competitions later in the year, helping her evaluate her current times and identify areas for improvement.
Although the final results were not available at the time of going to print, the championships once again highlighted the depth of talent in Namibian swimming and set a strong tone for the season ahead, as athletes shift their focus to upcoming competitions.