The Dolphin Swimming Club Masters are gearing up to showcase their talents at the World Aquatics Masters Championships in Singapore, running from today until the 16th of this month. This prestigious event will gather over 6,000 athletes aged 25 and older from more than 100 countries, competing in swimming, diving, water polo, and artistic swimming.
The Fijian delegation proudly comprises a ten-member team from the Dolphin Swimming Club, which has a storied history dating back to the 1970s. Among the athletes are several former international stars, including Olympians and Pacific Games medalists, who are ready to relive the excitement of competition.
Notable members of the team include Sharon Smith, a successful backstroke swimmer and national coach since 1992, who has represented Fiji in the Commonwealth Games and the Olympics. Her niece, Jodie Browne, currently living in the UK, and Shayne Sorby, who was once crowned Fiji’s Sportswoman of the Year at age ten and now resides in Singapore, will also bring their skills to the pool.
The Probert siblings—Harvie, Merran, Lyndall, and Carl—represent a significant part of Fiji’s swimming legacy. Carl Probert stands out as a five-time Olympian and multiple gold medalist at the Pacific Games, while the other siblings have also earned accolades throughout their careers.
Joining these distinguished athletes are former national representatives Terence Erasito, Sandra Bernklau, and Tracy Powell. The team’s coach, Paula Cokanasiga, is supported by fellow veteran swimmers Angela Probert, and Charles and Josephine St Julian.
Lyndall Fisher, Sports Development Manager at FASANOC, highlighted the importance of this trip, describing it as a celebration of shared history and love for the sport. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for former swimmers to reconnect, have fun, and relive the thrill of competition in a contemporary setting,” she remarked.
As the Dolphin Swimming Club Masters embark on this remarkable journey, they are not only competing for personal bests and medals but also representing and reviving the rich legacy of Fijian swimming on the global stage. This event is set to unite past champions while promoting the enduring spirit of camaraderie among swimmers.
The significance of this championship extends beyond competition; it serves as a chance for athletes to reconnect and celebrate their achievements, fostering hope for the future of swimming in Fiji as they make their mark internationally.
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