Online Reporter
Ellina Mhlanga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
AFTER a second-place finish at the previous edition of the Harare Amateur Swimming Senior Championships, Vikings are looking forward to another exciting and competitive meet when the competition takes off tomorrow.
The championships staged over two weekends will see the first phase running until Sunday at Les Brown Swimming pool.
Participants take a break for a few days, and return for the final weekend from December 5 to 7.
Vikings, who finished second behind Spartans last year will be among the participants, and coach Michael Ranken said they are looking forward to the meet.
“The only thing that I can say is we are looking forward to the championships.
“Most swimmers have gone through a preparation for it and they have worked hard for it.
“And it’s just to see what awaits them because it seems as if everyone is prepared. We would like to wish everyone the best.
“I am hoping the weather permitting it will be a good gala,” said Ranken.
They were part of the clubs that attended the Mufakose Developmental Gala more than a week ago, and for some swimmers it was platform to get ready for the provincial gala.
“What I want to do is just to give thanks to Harare Swimming for the push, for the drive, for what they have done to bring up swimming in Harare,” Ranken said.
While he is confident of the work they have put in ahead of the championships, Ranken is not underestimating any of the clubs that are going to compete.
It is likely to be a close contest with defending champions Spartans out to defend the title, and Sharks, who were third at the previous edition in the mix.
Sharks coach Kathy Lobb, is however, cautious as she said they have had to make some adjustments in their training due to examinations.
“We have really battled to get the right amount of training in. We did extra early morning and stuff to make up for it and hopefully that will pay off.
“We are still on a bit of a rebuild, so we are not expecting to win or anything. We have got members going off on water polo tours. We have got members going off on the Angola Youth Games. Some of the schools put their school camps this week.
“They are coming in late, (and) only able to swim on Sunday and things like that.
“It’s all been a bit difficult this year, but we will see how it goes. See whether we manage to cover up and compensate a bit for everything,” Lobb said.
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