The Kenya Aquatic Time Trial, set to take place at Moi Stadium, Kasarani, is expecting an impressive turnout of over 500 swimmers this weekend.
Stanley Kaberu, the vice president of Kenya Aquatics, announced the participation of swimmers from eight counties in the two-day championship.
The event serves as a qualifier for various significant competitions: the CANA Zone 3 Championships in Rwanda, the Africa Junior Championships in Mauritius, and the World Short Course Championship scheduled for Doha in February.
Swimmers from counties including Nairobi, Kiambu, Kajiado, Machakos, Mombasa, Nakuru, Kisumu, and Nyeri will compete for spots in these esteemed international tournaments. Kaberu emphasized the competitive nature of the trials, with coveted opportunities awaiting successful swimmers.
“Swimmers understand the significance of these trials and are fully prepared to vie for spots in the upcoming international assignments,” stated Kaberu.
Kenya Aquatics has initiated discussions with the Ministry of Sports, seeking financial support, particularly for the CANA Zone 3 Championships in Rwanda.
“We aim to send a team of 48 swimmers and hope to secure funding from the ministry. While the event is approaching rapidly, we are optimistic about receiving support for the championship,” Kaberu added.
Kaberu also highlighted the potential resumption of swimming grants and scholarships for Kenyan swimmers and coaches, following the lifting of the suspension by World Aquatics, which was enforced in 2021.
“Over the past few years, our swimmers suffered due to the suspension, missing out on significant opportunities. With the federation now stabilized, we are hopeful that the grants will be reinstated soon,” expressed Kaberu.
The chairman of Kiambu Swimming County emphasized the detrimental impact of previous internal disputes on the sport, resulting in the loss of a generation of swimmers.
“Unfortunately, we have witnessed several swimmers leaving the sport. However, as a federation, our aim is to foster and cultivate a new generation of swimmers who will bring pride to our nation,” he emphasized.
