Swimmers eye glory in Mombasa clubs gala

Maria Bianchi from Aga Khan Academy. [File]

Top swimmers from Nairobi and Mombasa will be engaged in an intense battle for medals as Mombasa invitational inter-clubs swimming championship begins on Friday to Sunday, at the Aga Khan Academy, Mombasa.

Both counties have entered some of their best swimmers for the three-day championship.

The gala, which is organised by the Mombasa County Swimming Association, is a vital training ground for the swimmers as they prepare for the forthcoming national and international competitions.

Defending champions Bandari Swimming Club, under the guidance of experienced coach Fakry Mansoor who also handles Aga Khan Academy, has enough arsenal to defend the title.

Other Mombasa teams in the title battle include hosts Aga Khan Academy Mombasa, Blue Ocean and Mombasa aquatics, among others.

Bandari and Blue Ocean swimmers had the lion's share during the Mombasa juniors gala, where they dominated in most of the events. They are are expected to repeat the good performance this weekend.

Nairobi's household names in the meet are Little Fish Swim Club, Otters and Sailfish swimming clubs.

International swimmer and multiple national record holder Maria Bianchi, of Blue Ocean Club, is expected to lead the Mombasa girls for medals.