Hilma Nalupe

The 2025 Bank Windhoek Namibia Aquatic Sports Federation (NASFED) short course championships, held from 18 to 19 July in Windhoek, Swakopmund and Oranjemund served as a powerful showcase of Namibia’s rising swimming talent and the Federation’s ongoing efforts to grow the sport at grassroots level.

In Windhoek, the Dolphins Swimming Club hosted three local clubs while Swakopmund and Oranjemund each welcomed athletes from two local clubs, bringing together some of the country’s most promising young competitors in a weekend filled with determination, teamwork and record-breaking performances.

President of the NASFED, Riaan Steyn, expressed pride in the level of performance shown throughout the weekend.

“The short course competition has been successful so far, with swimmers continuing to break records. It’s a clear sign that the sport is growing, not only in numbers, but in quality,” he said.

Beyond the medals and times on the clock, Steyn emphasised the federation’s broader mission, to build a stronger foundation for aquatic sports through access and education.

“We continue to strive to make swimming accessible by hosting various Learn to Swim programmes across the country, but there is still more to be done.”

One of the standout performers in Windhoek was Jessica Humphrey, representing Aqua Swimming and Fitness Club. With a calm focus beyond her years, Humphrey has already made waves internationally, recently competing in the Region 5 Youth Games and preparing for the World Aquatic Junior Championships taking place Romania, scheduled for 19 to 24 August.

“My dream is to one day make it to the Olympics. Competitions like this one give me the experience and confidence to keep improving,” she said. – hilmanalupe@gmail.com