Nairobi, Kenya – With just days to go before the Kenya National Masters Swimming Championship kicks off, the country is buzzing with excitement as international teams touch down, ready to compete in the highly anticipated event. This year’s edition, set for February 22 at the Kasarani Aquatics Arena, has drawn global attention—not only for its competitive edge but also as a qualifier for the prestigious World Aquatics Masters Swimming Championship in Singapore this July.

 

On Wednesday night, Team Indonesia became one of the first international squads to arrive in Nairobi, with swimmers Pauline Mutiara, Herlin Sri, and Tri Warsono leading the charge. Their presence marks a significant milestone as they step onto the international masters stage for the first time outside Indonesia.

 

Speaking to Kenya Swimming TV, Pauline Mutiara expressed her excitement, acknowledging the rigorous training she has undergone in preparation for the gala. “This is our first Masters Championship outside Indonesia, and we are looking forward to a fantastic experience. The warm welcome from Genesis Sports Limited at the airport made us feel at home,” she said.

 

On Thursday, the Indonesian team is scheduled to hold warm-up training sessions at the Kasarani Aquatic Arena, where they will also familiarize themselves with the competition facility.

 

The event has truly taken on an international flair, with masters swimmers from Uganda, Tanzania, India, and the United States also confirming their participation. The gala is expected to push Kenyan athletes to their best, as they look to qualify for the World Aquatics Masters Swimming Championship and make a statement on the global stage.

 

Kenyan swimmers have been ramping up their preparations, with clubs such as Genesis Sports, The Harpoons, Parklands Sports Club, TipwaTipwa, Comprehensive, Olive Fins, Crawford International School, Torpedo, Swimfit Classic, United Swimming Club, Home Aquatics, Hospital Hills Alumni, Mekatilili among others fielding their masters swimmers for the championship.

 

The Kenya Aquatics Technical Director, Omar Ali Omari, who is also a swimming coach at Crawford International School, expressed confidence in the championship’s success and emphasized Kenya’s growing reputation as a masters swimming powerhouse in Africa.

 

“We are thrilled to host the 2nd edition of the National Masters Swimming Championship, and the overwhelming number of entries is a testament to the sport’s growth. We have worked tirelessly to ensure the event meets World Aquatics standards,” Omari stated.

 

He further hinted at Kenya’s ambition to host an even bigger competition soon. “Kenya is becoming a Masters Swimming hub in Africa. In the near future, we are looking forward to launching the first-ever Africa Aquatics Masters Swimming Championship. We encourage Kenyans from all walks of life to turn up at Kasarani Aquatic Arena and cheer on our swimmers,” he added.

 

With over 300 swimmers expected to dive into action, fans are in for a treat as some of the best master swimmers showcase their endurance, technique, and competitive spirit. Spectators are encouraged to attend and experience the thrill of top-tier swimming action, network with fellow sports lovers, and cheer for their favorite athletes.

 

This championship is more than just a competition—it is a celebration of resilience, discipline, and the love of swimming. Whether you’re an athlete, a coach, a fan, or simply a sports enthusiast, Kasarani is the place to be this February 22.

 

Are you ready for the splash?