Abu Dhabi Swimming Festival is promoting fitness one stroke at a time
Abu Dhabi Swimming Festival is returning to the capital on 28th February after a four-year hiatus and this year’s edition, which takes place on the beach behind Emirates Palace, promises to be even bigger.
The event, which was founded in 2010, aims to raise awareness on fitness and water safety in line with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council’s health initiative.
Jamie Cunningham, the chief executive of Professional Sports Group, which organises the event, says, “It’s exciting to be part of a family day out that encourages the community to compete and have fun regardless of age and skill level.”
The competition is open to individuals over eight years old, families and teams of all abilities. There will be three 100m-500m Junior Splash Dash races for children aged eight to 14; a relay for parents and kids and an Abu Dhabi Mile competition.
The organisers are positive that this year’s edition will surpass the 2010 instalment, which featured 700 competitors. This year they’re expecting over 1,000 participants.
“We will be accepting entrants on the day to encourage everyone to come down and get involved,” Jamie adds.
Despite the long break since the last time it was held, Jamie hopes that the mass-participation spectacle will generate a revival in swimming inside and outside the UAE.
“We hope Abu Dhabi Swimming Festival will build a legacy for the Emirates and be a world-class event that attracts participants from around the globe for years to come.”
Chad le Clos
Abu Dhabi Swimming Festival is welcoming South African Olympic swimming superstar Chad le Clos as its special guest.
Since he began competing aged 10, Chad has taken gold at the 2012 London Olympics in 200m butterfly and nabbed two gold medals at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in India.
We chat with the 22-year-old to find out about his love for the sport and his achievements.
What age did you start swimming?
My dad taught me when I was three. Growing up in Durban, South Africa, I was always around water whether at a pool or beach. I properly got into swimming when I was eight.
How did you break into competitive swimming?
At primary school, I remember swimming 25m butterfly in an open age group meet in Penzance, Durban, and I tied for third, beating lots of kids who were older than me. I think that’s when I realised I was good at it.
What has been the highlight of your career to date?
Winning gold at the 2012 London Olympics was unbelievable and really put me on the map. Last year, I was named Swimmer of the Year by Fédération Internationale de Natation (Fina) – the international governing body of swimming. It was unreal to be named the best swimmer in the world, and to win an award that so many of my heroes have won was an incredible honour.
What are the health benefits of swimming?
I was encouraged to get into swimming because I have asthma and it helps with breathing. Generally, swimming is great exercise as it works every muscle in your body.
Why are you supporting this festival?
It’s inspiring to see people of all ages racing or just giving swimming a go. It’s a fantastic way to get fit and keep healthy, and it will be great to see people in the UAE enjoying the sport that I love.
Ferdinand Godinez
