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Uganda’s swimming team showcased dominance and determination, amassing 3,934 points to clinch the title at the 9th Africa Aquatics Zone 3 Swimming Championship held at the Piscine Universitaire de Kiriri Pool in Bujumbura, Burundi.
This victory marks Uganda’s successful defense of the trophy they first won in 2023 in Kigali, Rwanda.
Uganda’s girls’ team contributed 1,921 points, while the boys’ team added 1,877 points, solidifying the country’s top position.
Tanzania, the 2022 champions, finished in second place with 3,658.50 points (1,642.50 points from the girls and 1,856 points from the boys), Kenya secured third place overall with 3,201.50 points (1,584.50 points from the girls and 1,489 points from the boys) while Host Burundi finished fourth with 2,942 points (1,362 points from the girls and 1,490 points from the boys).
Several swimmers stood out for Uganda with exceptional performances, Heer Usadadiya Dominated the 15-16 category, winning five golds and one silver.
He was also the best male swimmer in his category with impressive times in events such as, 200m Backstroke: 2:10.05, 800m Freestyle: 8:46.18, 100m Backstroke: 1:01.44, 200m Freestyle: 2:00.18, 400m Freestyle: 4:14.90, 200m Individual Medley: 2:15.97 and 200m Butterfly: 2:21.09
Peterson Inhensiko: Bagged two golds and five silvers in the boys’ category, Malcom Nahamya: Won two golds and two silvers and Deshpande Khyati: Excelled in the girls’ category with two golds, two silvers, and two bronze medals.
Reflecting on the victory, Heer Usadadiya expressed pride in the team’s efforts, “We put in a lot of effort as a team, and I am happy that Uganda emerged victorious to defend the trophy back-to-back. It wasn’t easy because every country came with one purpose—to dethrone usbut we proved we were prepared. Thanks to our coaches, the administration of Elite Swim and Gym for the facilities, the Uganda Swimming Federation, and the parents who made it possible for us to be here in Burundi.”
Uganda’s back-to-back championship underscores the growth and resilience of the country’s swimming program, setting a high standard for future competitions in the region. The victory was a collective effort involving athletes, coaches, and supporters, ensuring the nation’s place as a swimming powerhouse in Africa.
Source:Wallnet