A total of 84 swimmers both young and old, will occupy the pool at the Taurama Aquatic Centre, while for some, they will experience for the first time the national event alongside the seasoned national and international swimmers.
Excellent performances are expected to be seen at this year’s nationals, as the athletes prepare to compete in their individual strokes.
The events will see 50m, 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, and 1500m freestyle, 200m breast stroke, back stroke and butterfly, and 200m and 400m individual medley events.
The swimmers will race this weekend towards their personal best times, with the hope of breaking records in the process, they will also be competing for a spot on the international competition list, targeted for 2017 Youth Commonwealth Games in the Bahamas from 19th to the 23rd of July.
Based on the performance of the athletes, a squad will also be formed for the 17th FINA World Championships to be hosted by Hungary, from the 14th to 30th of July, and Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Competition.
This event will be followed by a Junior Squad’s international meet in the USA for Junior World Championships in August.
PNG Swimming Inc will also take the opportunity to use the national event to make selections for the 2018 Oceania Swimming Championships, where Port Moresby is to play host.
