Song and dance as Kenyan swimmers jet back

Chairman Kenya Swimming Federation Ben Ekumbo, right, and Lucia Ruchti, left, of Team Kenya dance to the tune of African Dancers on arrival at JKIA after attending CANA event in Mauritius at JKIA on Tuesday, April 26, 2016. [PHOTO: JONAH ONYANGO/STANDARD]

It was all joy as Kenyan swimmers yesterday returned from CANA Zone Four swimming championships in Mauritius.

The jubilant swimmers were ecstatic at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport as they joined traditional dancers who were at hand to welcome them. Despite finishing fourth overall, the Kenyan swimmers were all smiles having bagged 30 medals (11 gold, 11 silver and eight bronze).

Muhammad Bilal Khandwalla, who emerged best swimmer in the boys’ 13-14 years category, said he performed well due to his dedication and passion for swimming and his desire to prove that Kenyans can excel in other sports.

“My passion for swimming is immeasurable. I swum well because I wanted to prove that Kenyans are not just good in athletics. I wanted to make my country proud as well as my parents, who give me immense support,” Khandwalla said.

“My main objective is to qualify for the 2020 Olympics because I am too young for the Rio show. However, before I make that happen, I have to improve on my times so I can perform well in future events both locally and internationally,” Khandwala added.

Kenya Swimming Federation (KSF) president Ben Ekumbo said the federation is targeting to send four swimmers to the Rio games, but chances of qualifying for the Summer Games are very slim because only Rebecca Kamau has achieved a B standard qualification.

The KSF boss added that focus now is on the Africa Senior championship in Johannesburg, South Africa in October.

“We want to send four swimmers to Rio but only one has come close to earning her spot. We are focusing on the continental event which is more achievable.”

The team’s coach Fakhry Mansoor praised the youngsters saying they made the country proud because being an Olympic qualifier, the competition was very tough.

“A lot was at stake for swimmers in this event making it very tough, but my swimmers were ready and were not intimidated,” Mansoor said.

The Kenyans also broke CANA and national records at the event. Thomas Tabuka was Kenya’s top achiever with five gold, silver and two bronze.