Team Fiji made an impressive start in the 14th Oceania Swimming Championships 2026 yesterday.
The first day of competition at the pool saw strong performances from the Fijian swimmers, setting a positive tone ahead of the finals.
David Young, Fiji’s top male swimmer and Olympian, shared his thoughts following his initial event. “It was good. I did what I wanted to do, make the A final. I didn’t go all out in the morning because I wanted to save some energy so I could go out fast at night (yesterday) and try to win gold,” he said.
Young described the competition as tough but competitive.
“There are some fast people here and there, but I’m confident with Team Fiji and our performances,” he said.
“We should definitely expect some hardware and medals and hopefully some oceanic records.”
Fiji’s emerging talents also made headlines at the championships with young swimmer Ruben Taylor making it to the B final.
Due to competition rules, only one swimmer per country qualifies in the B final. Taylor was Fiji’s sole representative there, while Young and his cousin Hansel made it to the A final. The team’s spirit remains high, with even those not competing showing strong support.
“Even the ones that aren’t necessarily swimming today (yesterday) are all very supportive and cheering loud for us like Jeremiah Rova,” Young noted.
Fijian fans are encouraged to come out in numbers to support the swimmers during tonight’s finals and through out the competition.
“It should be loud and fun so come and have some fun,” Young invited.
