Chronicle Editor
Sports Reporter
HARARE Amateur Swimming (HAS) are looking forward to hosting this year’s National Senior Swimming Championships that begin on Friday at Les Brown Pool.
The competition runs until February 20 with all provinces expected to take part.
HAS board member Nikki Johnsen said they have been working closely with Zimbabwe Swimming in preparation of the meet.
“Harare swimming has been working closely with Zimbabwe Swimming to make sure the nationals are of a very high standard and we get the best for our swimmers,” said Johnsen.
Harare are the defending champions and will be out to retain the title.
They are likely to face close competition from Bulawayo, who have over the years proved to be a force to reckon with despite having less numbers as compared to Harare.
The hosts are hoping to field over 100 swimmers with some of their top swimmers such as Anje Van As, Alexis Johnsen, Paul Mwipikeni and Limbikani Kalipengule expected to lead the team in terms of performance.
“Harare has approximately 110 swimmers this year and we are expecting around 200 altogether. Harare will be hoping to maintain their winning streak.
“Bulawayo will definitely also be fighting for the title. Swimmers have been training hard and we are hoping they all achieve their personal best top times.
“In the girls Anje Van As and Alexis Johnsen and the boys Paul Mwipikeni, Kyle Guta, Limbikani Kalipengule and Tarirai Madamombe will all be hoping to come out on top,” said Johnsen.
Some of the swimmers will be chasing the qualifying times for the South African National Championships.
Zimbabwe Swimming have over the years had some of their swimmers competing at the championships and is hoping several of them make the qualifying times.
“Yes the top swimmers will be hoping to qualify for South African Nationals which are held end of March and other swimmers will be hoping to go on Level Two or Three.”
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