Sport Preview: Swimming

The newly constructed, state-of-the-art National Aquatic Centre in Honiara will burst into life on Monday morning as the highly anticipated Sol2023 Pacific Games swimming competition takes centre stage.

Prepare for a tidal wave of excitement as established swimming powerhouses like New Caledonia, Tahiti, Fiji and PNG get ready to create ripples from the very first stroke.

Featuring 32 individual races and nine relays, the five-day swimming event promises a dazzling display of aquatic prowess, with nations from across the Pacific competing for supremacy in this prestigious event. Beyond the usual contenders, lesser-known countries are positioned to make a splash.

A standout feature of this year’s event will be the debut of the host nation, Solomon Islands. Although relatively unknown in the swimming arena, local athletes are riding the tide of excitement as they gear up to compete against the region’s best. The National Aquatic Centre is poised to witness history as these homegrown talents take the plunge in front of their enthusiastic fans for the very first time.

As the competition begins, predictions are as elusive as the currents in the vast Pacific. With strength and skill on display, it’s anyone’s race, and all participating nations, including hosts Solomon Islands, are determined to clinch medals and etch their names into the annals of Sol2023 history. Expect surprises, records to be shattered, and a spectacle that will leave spectators breathless.

Swimming begins at 9.30am on Monday and runs until Friday, with heats each morning and finals each evening from 6.30pm. Tickets are $30 SBD and available from Sol2023 ticket booths.

By Francis Pituvaka, Pacific Games News Service