As the world of masters swimming continues to grow in prestige, all eyes will be on the Kasarani Aquatic Arena in Nairobi, Kenya, on Saturday, February 22, 2025. The Kenya National Masters Swimming Championship promises to be a spectacular event, attracting top-tier swimmers from across the globe. With international entries from Madagascar, Seychelles, South Africa, Zambia, Namibia, Hungary, Venezuela, Uganda, and Tanzania, the championship has cemented its position as a must-attend event on the global masters swimming calendar.

The event, now in its second edition, is a testament to Kenya’s commitment to fostering a vibrant masters swimming culture. The inaugural edition, held last year in Sabis, was a resounding success, setting the stage for this year’s expanded competition. Among the Kenyan clubs poised to showcase their prowess are Olive Fins, Raptors, Comprehensive, Hospital Hill, The Harpoons, Genesis Sports, Swimfit Classic, Bandari, Mombasa Aquatics, Speed Sharks, Premier Swimming Club, Condor, TipwaTipwa, Blue Ocean, Torpedo, NextGen, Crawford International School, Braeburn, and United Swimming Club, among others.

Building a Legacy in Masters Swimming

Kenya Aquatics’ Technical Director, Omari Omari, spoke with Kenya Swimming TV about the significance of the championship.

“The upcoming all-inclusive masters swimming championship will be the second edition since we staged the inaugural event last year in Sabis, which also had international participants,” Omari shared. “This year’s event will serve as a selection for the World Aquatics Masters Swimming Championship in Singapore this July. The response from both local and international participants has been overwhelming, and we are thrilled to showcase Kenya as a powerhouse in masters swimming.”

Omari, who also serves on the Africa Aquatics Masters Committee, has been instrumental in marketing the event globally. His efforts have brought international recognition to Kenya’s masters swimming program, inspiring other African nations to develop similar initiatives.

“Kenya is among the top countries in Africa with a vibrant masters swimming program, and other nations are beginning to emulate our model,” he noted. “Our ultimate goal is to bid for the inaugural All-Inclusive Africa Aquatics Masters Swimming Championship. Hosting such an event would further establish Kenya as a hub for masters swimming on the continent.”

A Star-Studded Lineup

The Kasarani Aquatic Arena, renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities, is the perfect venue to host this prestigious event. With participants ranging from seasoned swimmers to new enthusiasts, the championship embodies the spirit of inclusivity that defines masters swimming.

International competitors bring a wealth of experience and flair, with countries like Hungary and Venezuela sending participants known for their dominance in the sport. Local clubs, meanwhile, will be looking to make their mark, fueled by home support and pride.

Looking Ahead

This championship is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of the enduring love for swimming, uniting athletes of all ages and backgrounds. With the World Aquatics Masters Championship in Singapore just months away, the event offers a chance for the Kenya masters swimmers to prepare for the global stage while fostering camaraderie with their international counterparts.

As the countdown begins, one thing is clear: the Kenya National Masters Swimming Championship is not just an event—it’s a movement. The ripples from this championship will be felt far and wide, heralding a new era for masters swimming in Africa and beyond.