PNG Swimming c’ships to start tomorrow

AFTER what has been a very disruptive two years due to the Coronavirus pandemic, Papua New Guinea Swimming Incorporated (PNGSI) will hold its first 2022 event, this weekend’s Theodist National Championships.
It is set to be an exciting weekend of racing for all participating swimmers.
PNGSI has received entries from about 60 swimmers, and for some it will be their first opportunity to take part such championships.
But the experience of participating for all involved will be enjoyable and extremely rewarding after such a long spell.
The championships launch PNGSI’s calendar of events into action with some exciting competitions happening in 2022 and next year. Following this event is the July 28-Aug 8 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England, and will see Team PNG swimmers Georgia-Leigh Vele and Ryan Maskelyne, lead that charge. “We wish them every success,” PNGSI secretary Carly Pini said.
“The Theodist National Championships will also serve as a qualifying meet for swimmers vying for a position to train in our elite squad for the Pacific Games in Honiara, Solomon Islands, next year.
“It will also provide an opportunity for our target squad swimmers to record a qualifying time for either the 2022 Fina World Championships or the Fina Junior World Championships.”
This weekend’s championships will begin at 5pm tomorrow at the Taurama Aquatic and Indoor Centre (TAIC) in Port Moresby, and will run through Sunday morning. Sessions will be held tomorrow (5pm), Saturday (8.30am and 4.30pm) and Sunday (8.30am).
“All are welcome to attend and cheer on our swimmers and catch a glimpse of swimming in PNG,” Pini said. “A K5 charge by TAIC will allow entry for spectators.”
This will be the first championship in Port Moresby since the Coronavirus pandemic in 2020.