Africa-Press – Kenya. Zac Okumu led Riptide Swimming Club to overall glory at the 2025 East African Chipkizi Swimming Championship, which was held at Braeburn School, Arusha, over the weekend.
Okumu delivered one of the standout performances of the meet in the Boys 14–15 years 100 metres freestyle, clocking an impressive 58.68 seconds—one of the fastest times recorded at the championship and a swim that drew praise from coaches and competitors alike.
Riptide Swim Club dominated the combined team standings, amassing a commanding 3,014 points to finish top overall. They were followed by Mwanza Swim Club with 2,600 points, while Lake Victoria Sports Club placed third on 2,200 points.
Several young swimmers also caught the eye with outstanding individual displays. In the Girls 8–9 years category, Rune Klenz impressed in the 25-metre backstroke, touching the wall in 23.89 seconds to underline the value of early technical development in swimming.
In the same age group, Massawe Aika of North Coast Swimming Club showcased her potential by winning the 50 metres butterfly in 47.83 seconds, controlling the race with smooth turns and measured pacing.
Speaking after the championship, Khalid Yahya Rushaka OLY, head coach of North Coast Swimming Club in Dar es Salaam, praised the organisers—PIPSSA Kenya, Genesis Sports Limited and Ripples Sports—for delivering a well-run and exciting gala.
Rushaka described the championship as a vital platform for exposing young talent and building confidence among developing swimmers. He noted that several teams withdrew at the last minute due to recent political instability in the region, but reassured stakeholders that Tanzania remains stable and safe.
He expressed optimism that more teams would register for the next edition and emphasised that stronger regional cooperation would help raise standards across East African swimming.
Championship coordinator Mark Gaya echoed similar sentiments, pointing to clear progress in performances and coaching standards across the region. “Our swimmers are improving both technically and physically,” said Gaya. “Clubs should now begin targeting World Aquatics A and B qualifying times.
” Gaya confirmed that the East African Chipkizi Swimming Championship will return to Arusha in December 2026, urging teams to prepare early and focus on lowering race times. Kenya was represented by Gold Fish Swimming Club from Nanyuki, alongside Woodcreek School and Nawiri Swimming Club from the Kiambu Aquatics Circuit.
Uganda fielded one team—Olympia Sports Academy—whose swimmers competed strongly against a deep field. Tanzania provided the majority of participants, including Riptide Swim Club, Mwanza Swim Club, Lake Victoria Sports Club, North Coast Swimming Club, Uwcea Leopard Sharks, Katalemwa Junior and Hodari Christian School.
