For many young swimmers, just getting to the Age Group National Swimming Competition is a big achievement.
That’s exactly what 24 members of the Dolphin Swimming Club did over the weekend.
Held at the National Aquatic Centre in Suva, the two-day meet brought together top swimmers from across Fiji but not just anyone could take part.
Only swimmers who had qualified by meeting set times during earlier competitions from February to April were allowed to compete.
“It’s like the Coca-Cola Games, but for swimming,” said Paula Cokanasiga, head coach of the Dolphin club.
“You have to earn your spot.”
Cokanasiga said the focus for his team wasn’t just about winning medals, but about achieving personal goals.
“Some of our swimmers hit their goal times, and some even set new personal bests,” he said.
“Others struggled a bit, but overall, it was a good experience for everyone.”
Among the Dolphin swimmers were a few national representatives who are preparing for the Pacific Mini Games in Palau later this month.
Cokanasiga said their performances were encouraging, and the experience gained at the Age Nationals will help in their international build-up.
The overall winning team was Tritons Swimming Club, who collected 42 gold medals, followed by Barracuda Swim Club with 39 gold, and Great White Sharks with 38 gold.
In the girls’ division, Orca Swim Club came out on top with 37 gold medals.
While the Age Nationals marked the end of the long course season, where swimmers race in Olympic-sized pools, Cokanasiga said attention now turns to the short course season, held in smaller pools.
The next step is to qualify through three more events before the short course nationals in Nadi.
“It’s all part of their journey,” he said.
