A confident ten-swimmer squad from Nakuru County has descended on Mombasa, ready to challenge for medals at the pivotal Kenya Open Swimming Championships starting this morning in Nyali. The team, comprising five male and five female athletes, carries the region's hopes in a competition that serves as a crucial qualifier for various international assignments next year.

This championship is more than just a race; it's a gateway to global arenas, including potential selection for teams heading to the Commonwealth Games and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The stakes are high, and the pressure is on for these athletes to translate months of rigorous training into podium finishes and qualifying times.

From the Rift to the Coast

The journey from the highlands to the coast represents a significant moment for the swimmers, who have undergone intensive preparation. Nakuru County Competitions Secretary Buka Otieno emphasized the team's readiness, noting their determination to secure spots on the national team. "We have able swimmers whose timings qualify them to be selected into short and long course national teams. Therefore, our expectations are good," Otieno stated.

The squad showcases exciting talent, including two sets of siblings—Stephanie and Timon Mugo, and Jay and Jan Kitavi—who are already in Mombasa, poised for the competition. The full team list is a blend of promising swimmers aiming to make their mark.

• Male Swimmers: Dylan Gakumbi, Jan Kitavi, Jay Kitavi, Luke Wagura, and Timon Mugo.
• Female Swimmers: Grace Luisa, Serena Imani, Natasha Wambui, Martha Wangari, and Stephanie Mugo.

A Stepping Stone for 2026

The event in Mombasa is a key fixture in the national aquatics calendar, which is packed with opportunities leading up to major global competitions. For the Nakuru contingent, a strong performance here is not just about county pride; it's about securing a personal and professional future in the sport. Success in Nyali's waters could put them on a direct path to representing Kenya on the world stage, a dream for any young athlete.

As the championships kick off, all eyes will be on the clock. For these swimmers, every fraction of a second is a stroke closer to a national call-up and the chance to turn a local ambition into an international reality.