Luanda, Angola, May 2 2024 - The Gambia Swimming & Aquatic Sports Association has significantly splashed at the XVI African Aquatics Swimming & Open Water Championship 2024 in Luanda, Angola. Held from April 30 to May 5, the competition showcased top-tier talent alongside the Elective Congress of the African Aquatic continent's Executive Board.
Represented by a coach, team manager, and two elite swimmers, Gambia has demonstrated its prowess in the pool. Among the notable athletes are Ousman Jobe, currently based in Thailand on a World Aquatic Scholarship, and Aminata Nia-Maria Barrow, a US-based swimmer. In Wednesday's 100 breaststroke, Barrow advanced to the finals, although she narrowly missed out on a medal.
Undeterred, Barrow's determination shone brightly on the third day of competition. On May 2, 2024, she again dominated her heats in the women's 200 breaststroke, securing her spot in the finals scheduled for Thursday May 2nd, in the evening. Confident in her abilities, Barrow aims to secure Gambia's first medal in a major African swimming tournament, undoubtedly marking a historic moment for the nation.
Adding to Gambia's presence at the championship is Yorro Njie, an International Technical Officer (ITO), officiating at the event. With prior experience officiating in Tunisia and the 2023 World Aquatic Championship in Fukuoka, Japan, Njie brings a wealth of expertise to the proceedings.
The stakes are high at the XVI African Aquatics Swimming & Open Water Championship, as the event is an Olympic qualification opportunity. Both Jobe and Barrow are expected to deliver outstanding performances, hoping to secure spots at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
As the competition heats up in Luanda, Gambia stands poised to leave its mark on the international swimming stage, showcasing the talent and determination of its athletes.
