Ridwan Abubakar has set his sights on the Olympics after a spectacular display at the National Championship in Croatia over the weekend.
Abubakar set a new Kenya national record in the 400m freestyle, where he clocked 4:04.39, securing second place and breaking his previous record of 4:05.65 at the Međunarodno Plivačko National Swimming Championship
This new record not only highlighted Abubakar's prowess but also boosted his World Aquatic Points to 730, reaffirming his position as the highest-ranked Kenyan swimmer in terms of points and strengthening his qualification for the Paris Olympics.
The Swimmer, who is based in the United Kingdom, said he is in great form and relishing the battle as he hopes to make the Olympics cut.
"I'm in good form competing in events across Europe and by the time we go to Paris, I will be in peak condition,” he added.
Reflecting on his performance in Croatia, Abubakar expressed immense pride and satisfaction.
"Breaking the national record and winning a silver medal in such a prestigious event is a dream come true," he said.
"I owe this success to my coach, my family and all my supporters back home in Kenya. This achievement is a stepping stone towards my ultimate goal of representing Kenya at the Paris Olympics."
Elsewhere, top swimmers set personal best times at the Private and International Preparatory Schools Sports Association( PIPSSA) Championship held at Kasarani Stadium over the weekend.
In the girls '10-14 800m race, Silvia Bosibori from Mpesa Foundation Academy emerged top in a time of 2:40.92. Her teammate, Mercy Manganga, secured the second position (2:48.34) and Kianda School's Tess Njeri finished third in 2:53.43.
Mpesa Foundation Academy’s strong showing in this category set the tone for their overall team performance.
In the boys' 10-14 800m, Moses Lengushuru from Mpesa Foundation Academy continued the winning streak, winning the event in 2:27.87. Jack Mwangi from Brookhurst International School took the second spot in 2:29.38 while Linus Wanjala from Mpesa Foundation Academy completed the top three in 2:51.18.
In the girls' 15 & over 800m, Zeitun Wanjiku from Mpesa Foundation Academy won the race in 2:40.75. Her teammate, Veronica Wanjiru, came in second at 2:49.51 and Kianda's Tricia Rono (2:50.660 placed third.
