At least 45 athletes from across the federation are expected to compete in the Governor’s Para-Swimming Classic, set to take place at the National Stadium swimming pool in Surulere from March 17 to 22.
According to the organizers, this edition will distinguish itself from previous ones by featuring five days of intensive scientific training and analysis, culminating in a one-day competition.
Speaking at a media parley in Lagos, the convener and Vice President of the Para-Swimming Federation, Bose Kafo, emphasized that this edition will be more data-driven rather than just a gathering of swimmers.
“We are honoring the spirit of sports with this remarkable program. Our findings show that para-swimmers lag in resistance, endurance, and other physiological aspects of performance. This event will expose them to the necessary training to bridge these gaps,” Kafo said in Lagos on Wednesday.
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For data collection and research purposes, organizers have confirmed that only three classifications of para-swimmers will compete in this edition:
- Short Stature: Athletes with reduced bone length in the upper limbs, lower limbs, or trunk.
- Leg Length Difference: Athletes with a measurable difference in leg length.
- Intellectual Impairment: Athletes facing challenges with pattern recognition, sequencing, memory, or reaction time, which can impact overall sports performance.
The scientific training sessions will provide valuable insights into the athletes’ abilities, allowing organizers to collect crucial data while helping swimmers refine their speed, endurance, and overall performance.
Organizers also revealed that a key objective of the event is to secure the inclusion of at least one para-swimming event in the upcoming National Sports Festival later this year in Ogun State. This goal depends on the athletes’ performances—whether they achieve personal bests or set new records during the competition.
Integrating para-swimming into the National Sports Festival would mark a significant step in developing and preparing elite athletes for the upcoming Para Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were Vice President of Africa Aquatic, Babatunde Fatayi-Williams, and President of the Nigeria Paralympics Federation, Sunday Odebode.
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