Lilongwe May 15, Mana: Malawi Aquatic Union (MAU) has expressed satisfaction with the tremendous improvements junior swimmers have displayed when tasked to represent the country at international competitions.

The sentiments were shared by MAU Spokesperson, Beatrice Makwenda following the stint nine swimmers had at the recent 2023 African Swimming Confederation (CANA) Zone IV Championship, in Luanda, Angola.

Makwenda hailed 14 year-old Luka Smith who carted home two gold medals in the 50 metres and 100 metres freestyle events while six new Malawian national records were broken during the championship.

“Luka has done Malawi proud and has demonstrated that the golden podium appearance is possible for our athletes. He has inspired his colleagues to reach greater heights.

“MAU is very proud of the young and upcoming team who are already making a mark in breaking 10-year old records. They have shown growth in the sport and also made a mark towards improving the swimming records,” she said.

Makwenda was grateful that the 2023/2024 national budget included funds for the completion of the Aquatic Complex but highlighted that the Ministry of Sports is better placed to provide the timeline for the completion.

Meanwhile Coach of the Swimmers, Sharon Malrose said it was an honor to coach the young swimmers who are relatively new to the competition setting at international level as they showed potential besides challenges faced in preparations.

“Almost all the swimmers achieved personal best times in their events in Angola.  Swimming in a 50 metre pool takes some getting used to and for some of them it was their first time in the longer pool having trained almost exclusively in 25 metre pools.

“It is not easy for swimmers who train in Malawi as it is seasonal.  From now (May) until September, the water is cold hence swimmers are unable to train for any length of time, therefore, it is pleasing to see them achieving great results,” Malrose said.

CANA Zone IV Swimming Championships games were held from 3-6 May, with swimmers, Asher Banda (17), Jessie Chirwa (12), Ian Chongwe (12). Danielle Kandjaza (12), Jeremiah Makwenda (13), Tasunje Mkavea (13), Rhinniah Nzengo (14), Zoe Rebello (15).

The swimmers were accompanied by team manager Taymamike Chang’anamuno and Technical Official, Beatrice Makwenda.

At the tournament, Smith broke the record in the 100 metre freestyle, Makwenda in the 800 metre freestyle as well as in the 400 metre freestyle, whereas Mkavea had records in 50 metre breaststroke, 100m breaststroke and 400 metre freestyle

Additionally, Chongwe, Smith, Makwenda and Mkavea also had a record in the 4 x 50 metre freestyle relay competition.

Mana/tm/pk