Swimmers back in the water

By PATRICIA KEAMO
THE Boroko Amateur Swimming Club (BASC) has resumed training at the Taurama Aquatic Centre since the re-opening of the pool two weeks ago.
BASC president Natalie Pidik told The National on Tuesday that although the past two years had been challenging, training was gaining momentum with between 35 and 50 swimmers across all eight squads in attendance.
With Covid-19 operations set up at the venue, St John Ambulance chief executive Matt Cannon told The National that there was nothing wrong with swimmers using the facility as the Florence Nightingale Hospital was in a separate building.
“They have started swimming and the pool has been chlorinated with swimming taking place a building away from where the Covid-19 patients are looked after,” he said.
Pidik said BASC was now operating under strict measures after resuming operations on May 5 following approval from the national pandemic response controller, through the Papua New Guinea Sports Foundation (PNGSF) and PNG Swimming Incorporated (PNGSI).
“We have created specific and regulated restrictions and perimeters that keep our club and the Covid-19 hospital safe and uncompromised,” she said.
“It’s been going really well and we are thankful for all that PNGSF, St John, PNGSI and the BASC committee has done to make this all happen.
“The club is only operating for current members and will not be taking any new members due to the restrictions that limit the public from entering the facility.
“But we are hoping that this will change for the 2022 season.”
Pidik said since resumption, they had been running afternoon sessions on weekdays (3-5.30pm) and morning sessions on Saturdays (7.30-9.30 am).
“Swimmers in attendance range from Aqua Kiddies (ages 3-7) up to our Gold squads (competition and development squads),” she said.
“We have five Aqua Kiddies groups and as many training squads where each squad runs uniquely and on programmes specifically created for that level, ability and stamina.”
Pidik said BASC was concerned about a lack of training following the venue’s closure in 2020 and early this year due to the pandemic.
“Due to the lockdown measures, BASC saw about three of its members leave PNG to return to their homes,” she said.
Pidik said unfortunately, due to the venue restrictions, there are no upcoming events for BASC.
“But PNGSI and BASC have three PNG athletes preparing for Olympic selection,” she said.

“ I know whoever is chosen will go on to represent PNG well and make everyone at BASC proud.”

“Thankfully, all three swimmers were overseas prior to Covid-19 hitting last year.
“They have remained overseas in preparation for the selection process as per the decision made by PNGSI to ensure consistent training and access to facilities.
“We do not know which swimmers will be selected at this time, but are proud of their dedication and hard work to get to this point.
“I know whoever is chosen will go on to represent PNG well and make everyone at BASC proud.”