Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-03-28 12:00:00
Competitive swimming is a sport that is predominantly dominated by minors, but children under the age of 10 often struggle to find enough opportunities for competition. In Uganda, the main age groups for swimming events are categorized as 10 and under, 11-12, 13-14, 15-16, and 17 and over. However, within the 10 and under age group, it is mostly a lenient 9-10 age range that competes. Recognizing this gap, the Starlings Swim Club, a relatively young club that was established in March 2022, took the initiative to organize their own Starlings Juvenile Gala on March 24 at the Muhika Skilling Centre in Kira.
The event saw Dolphins emerge as the dominant team, accumulating a total of 2,006.5 points from both their boys and girls. They were followed by Aquatic Academy with 1219 points and Gators with 1006 points, making up the podium finishers at the competition. The races at the gala were designed for swimmers aged 6 and under, seven, eight, nine, and 10 years, as well as the 11-12 years age group.
Coach Mubarak Ssemanda of Starlings expressed that the main goal of the event was to provide swimmers with the opportunity to compete against peers of the same age, as well as to give young swimmers who lack regular competition throughout the year a platform to showcase their talents. The gala attracted a total of 326 swimmers from 20 different clubs, providing a significant platform for young swimmers to display their skills and passion for the sport.
In addition to offering a competitive environment for swimmers, the event also aimed to provide a chance for age group swimmers who may not qualify for other events throughout the year. This inclusivity and focus on giving every swimmer an opportunity to participate and compete were key aspects of the Starlings Juvenile Gala.
The final standings of the gala reflected the competitive spirit and talent on display, with Silverfin Academy securing the top spot with 457 points. They were followed by Friends of Water with 110 points, Shekinah International School with 67 points, and The Great White Sharks with 36 points.
Overall, the Starlings Juvenile Gala served as an important platform for young swimmers in Uganda to engage in competitive swimming, showcase their skills, and foster a passion for the sport. By providing opportunities for swimmers of all ages and abilities to participate, the event contributed to the growth and development of swimming talent in the country. As the sport continues to evolve and attract more participants, events like the Starlings Juvenile Gala play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of competitive swimmers.
Read the original article on Uganda Monitor
