Supermarlins splash to victory at Kiambu gala

A total of 274 athletes dove into the pool to compete during the Kiambu County Level 2 Swimming Gala at Regis Academy in Kiambu. 

The event, which was organized by the Kiambu County Aquatics Association (KCAA), drew the participation of 29 teams hailing from various counties, including Nairobi, Mombasa, and Machakos.

Among the notable teams were Mombasa Aquatics, Genesis Sports, Juja St. Peters School, Zetech University, and Merishaw School.

A staggering 1081 events, showcasing their prowess across different swimming styles and distances.

The outstanding performance of the Supermarlins Swim Club from Kiambu County saw them emerge victorious in the male category, clinching a remarkable 31 medals, including 13 gold, 9 silver, and 9 bronze.

Not far behind, Crawford International School from Kiambu County secured the first runners-up position with 27 medals, consisting of 10 gold, 9 silver, and 8 bronze. Meanwhile, AquaShark Fins claimed the second runner-up spot with a commendable collection of 9 gold medals.

In the female category, Potterhouse School sparkled as they seized the top spot with a total of 26 medals, comprising 11 gold, 8 silver, and 7 bronze.

Following closely, Aga Khan Academy, Nairobi, made an impressive showing with 25 medals, including 11 gold, 7 silver, and 7 bronze. The SuperMarlins Swim Club secured the third position, showcasing their talent with 13 medals, consisting of 7 gold, 2 silver, and 4 bronze.

The individual achievements were equally awe-inspiring, with standout performances such as Kigara Nduta from Potterhouse, Kiambu County, triumphing in the 50 meters breaststroke with a remarkable time of 48.24.

Additionally, Wanjiru Jackson from Genesis Sports displayed exceptional skill by claiming victory in the 100m freestyle in the girls' category, while Mayerde Franklyn from Sunrise Bay Swim School demonstrated mastery in the 50-meter backstroke in the boys' category.

Ethan Kariuki from Juja St. Peters School left a lasting impression by clinching the 50m breaststroke with a remarkable time of 50.57.

Following their success in the heats, the accomplished swimmers are set to advance to the Level 3 and National trials in Mombasa on the 18th and 19th of this month.

The winners of the national trials will have the prestigious opportunity to compete in the Africa Aquatics Zone 3 Championship, slated to be held in the enchanting city of Bujumbura, Burundi, from November 22 - 23.

Corporal Nesmas Mbati, the dedicated PR officer, revealed plans for a high-level training camp in Nairobi during the forthcoming November/December holiday season, aimed at preparing athletes for the upcoming international tournaments.

Ezra Muhia, one of the talented participants in the exhilarating gala, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the invaluable opportunity and pledged to continue honing his skills, aspiring to deliver stellar performances in future competitions.

With his eyes set on representing Kenya in esteemed international swimming events, including the Olympics, Ezra is determined to elevate his performance to new heights.

Omar Ali Omar, the esteemed head coach for Crawford International School and the esteemed technical director of Kenya Aquatics, lauded the dedicated efforts of all coaches in training and preparing the athletes.

He emphasized the pivotal role of the championship in serving as vital preparation for the national trials and conveyed heartfelt appreciation to the Kiambu Aquatics for orchestrating top-tier swimming galas, providing a platform for swimmers to showcase their exceptional talent.

Stanley Kaberu, Managing Director of Genesis Sports, who also serves as the esteemed vice president of Kenya Aquatics, extended a generous offer to sponsor the upcoming Masters Swimming Championship at Porterhouse School on December 7, 2024. His sponsorship encompasses a splendid array of medals, trophies, certificates, and a prestigious rotating shield, the collective worth of which stands at an impressive Shs500,000.