The 2nd National Open Water Swimming Championships kicked off with a symbolic beach cleaning initiative, setting the tone for a day of competition, awareness, and community engagement.
The event, hosted by Sierra Leone Aquatics in partnership with World Aquatics, brought together 33 swimmers from across Sierra Leone for the 1KM, 3KM, and 5KM races.
The competition was fierce, with Mohammed Bangura claiming gold in the 1KM race, followed closely by Elijah Bewie and Osman Bamba. David Donryln took the top spot in the 3KM race, while Abdulai A. Samura and Amadu Sankoh secured second and third places, respectively. In the 5KM race, John A. Samura demonstrated remarkable endurance, winning gold ahead of Musa B. Sannoh and Ibrahim Kamara.
The event’s theme, “Physical, Mental & Ocean Health Awareness,” was woven throughout the day, with mental health awareness talks and community engagement activities promoting a holistic approach to well-being. Local media houses, including Amaze TV, Silk TV, and Rise Radio, provided extensive coverage of the event, highlighting the athletes’ achievements and the importance of ocean conservation.
According to Mohammed Turay, President of Sierra Leone Aquatics, “This is more than just swimming, it’s about protecting our bodies and our beaches.” The event concluded with exclusive interviews with winners, guest dignitaries, and proud parents, showcasing a community united in its pursuit of a healthier future.
The 2nd National Open Water Swimming Championships demonstrated that small strokes can indeed make big waves, emphasizing the impact of sports on social awareness and community building.
