The Namibia Aquatics Sports Federation (NASFED) has kicked off the year on a high note, following a successful national championship in February and multiple international outings for its swimmers in South Africa.

NASFED athletes have already participated in several competitions across the region, with another group having participated recently in the level two Championships in Pretoria, South Africa. The federation also recently had a team competing at the South African Youth Championships.

NASFED president Riaan Steyn said the year has started strongly, with swimmers focused on achieving qualification times and breaking national records.

“Our year really started off on a high note. We began with our national championships earlier in the year, followed by various tours. Many of our swimmers have already qualified for the upcoming Aquatics Junior Championships later this year, which is one of the competitions we are really looking forward to,” said Steyn. Namibian swimmers have been competing in level two competitions in South Africa, which serve as entry level events within a tiered system. Athletes who exceed the required standards progress to level three, and eventually to junior national championships.

“The level competitions in South Africa are regional, usually involving three or four regions. We typically send two swimmers to each region,” Steyn explained.

He added that events such as the South African Youth Championships provide valuable exposure, as swimmers compete against club athletes from across South Africa.

“These competitions are important for our swimmers. Firstly, they gain experience competing at a higher level, and secondly, the competitions give them a chance to win medals and experience being on the podium,” he said.

Steyn emphasised that such exposure plays a crucial role in athlete development, allowing swimmers to compete against peers with similar times while building confidence and competitive experience.

Looking ahead, the federation is preparing for the Pupkewitz NASFED Open Water Easter Challenge, scheduled for next week at Lake Oanob.

-hnalupe@nepc.com.na