The Barracuda Swim Club triumphed at the Fiji Short Course Age Groups Nationals over the weekend, achieving an outstanding medal haul of 72 Gold, 53 Silver, and 35 Bronze medals. This remarkable performance solidified their position at the top of the competition.
Trailing the Barracuda Club, Tritons Swim Club secured second place, while Great White Sharks rounded out the top three. Lucy Erasito, president of Fiji Swimming, praised the dedication of the coaches and the unwavering support from parents, which she credited as crucial to the athletes’ success.
“It’s been inspiring to witness the athletes’ commitment over the past few months as they successfully balanced their studies with intense training,” Erasito noted. This year’s event was particularly noteworthy as it featured the breaking of eight Age Group National records alongside six Fiji Open records.
The Championships highlighted exceptional performances, notably by athletes such as Grace Khelan, Hansel McCaig, Nigel Simpson, and Samuel Yalimaiwai, all of whom set new benchmarks. Grace Khelan shone by breaking four records, including two national records in the 11-12 age category for both the 50m freestyle and 50m backstroke, plus two Fiji short course open records in the same events.
Nigel Simpson made his mark with two Fiji Short Course Open records in the 8 and Under category for the 50m Freestyle and 200m Backstroke. Samuel Yalimaiwai added to the achievements with a new National record in the 17 & Over category for the 50m Breaststroke. Furthermore, Hansel McCaig set an impressive seven records in the 17 & Over age group, comprising five SC national records alongside two Fiji open SC records.
The event concluded with a special acknowledgment of the officials whose essential roles contributed to the seamless execution and success of the championships.
In summary, the Fiji Short Course Age Groups Nationals not only showcased individual talents but also highlighted the importance of community support and sportsmanship. This fostering of young athletes promises a bright future for swimming in Fiji, making this event a significant milestone for local swimming talent and a source of inspiration for continued dedication and excellence in the sport.
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