Several New Records Set at 9th Annual ABSF Invitational Championships
Several new records were set at the recently concluded 9th Annual Invitational Championships hosted by the Antigua and Barbuda Swimming Federation (ABSF) from October 9-11, 2024. This exciting event saw 58 local swimmers competing in their final opportunity to qualify for the 32nd OECS Swimming Championships, scheduled to take place in St. Vincent and the Grenadines in November.
The meet resulted in the establishment of one new national swimming record and six age group records, showcasing the exceptional talent and competitive spirit of the swimmers.
Among the standout performances, Madison MacMillan set a new national record in the girls’ 15-17 age group for the 100 meters backstroke, clocking 1:07.17. This also represented an age group record for her category. MacMillan went on to establish another age group record in the 400 meters freestyle, completing the race in 4:34.90.
Other age group records were set by:
- Anya DeGannes (11-12 age group) 200 meters freestyle, at 2:14.65
- Kaylee Warner (9-10 age group) 200 meters freestyle, clocking 2:24.76
- Isabel Nicholas (8 and under girls) 25 meters butterfly, at 16.76
- Jalen Weste (8 and under boys) 25 meters freestyle, coming in at 14.91
Recognition was also given to male and female swimmers who excelled in their age groups. The top swimmer from each category were:
- Isabel Nicholas, girls 8 and under Jalen Weste, boys, 8 and under
- Kaylee Warner, girls 9 -10 Christopher Walter, boys 9 -10
- Anya DeGannes, girls 11 – 12 Alessandro Bazzoni, boys 11 – 12
- Bremner, Isabelle girls, 13 – 14 Espriit Shaw boys, 13 – 14
- Ellie Shaw, girls, 15 to 17 Neil Noronha, boy, 15 – 17
- Kimberlee Warner, girls 18 and over Stefano Mitchell, boys 18 and over
These top performers and record-breakers highlight the exceptional growth of local talent within the sport, signalling a promising future for swimming in Antigua and Barbuda.
ABSF President Edith Clashing praised the efforts of the athletes, stating, “The results from this year’s invitational are a testament to the dedication and hard work of our athletes. Setting a national record and breaking multiple age group records demonstrate how far we’ve come as a swimming community. We are proud of each swimmer’s achievements – national records, age group records, top age group performers and personal best performances – and look forward to continued success at the OECS Championships.” Antigua and Barbuda is the defending OECS champions.
With tremendous support from sponsors, volunteers, and the wider community, the 9th Annual Invitational Championships were a resounding success. ABSF remains committed to advancing the development of swimming in Antigua and Barbuda and eagerly anticipates the performance of its athletes at the OECS Swimming Championships, to be held from November 8-10, 2024, in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
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CONGRATULATIONS!
Congratualtions to all the swimmers. I know this is hard work. And hard works pays off in the end. But I tell you young kids, do not lose focus and don’t think local. broaden your horizon with thinking regional and then international. We have seen in the last Olympics that our small Islands can make a statement. St. Lucia is celebrating big time. And it is about time Antigua and Barbuda joins its regional partners on the podium in some sport. Perhaps one day it will be swimming. And do not use the excuse of not having a professional pool. It’s all in you that matters. Now I wish you all the best in your future endeavors. Train well and compete well.