The Malta Masters Swim Team is set to make waves once again as they compete in the 7th Cyprus International Masters Swim Meet in Limassol on October 19th and 20th. Following their success at the Dutch Masters Championships in Eindhoven last May, the team is eager to build on their momentum, with an even larger squad and a renewed sense of purpose. This time, 18 swimmers-comprising 9 men and 9 women-will represent four of Malta's premier swimming clubs: Neptunes, San Giljan, Exiles, and South Waves; with Neptunes participating with the largest contingent of swimmers.
The team's performance in Eindhoven has clearly sparked a surge of interest in Masters swimming across Malta. With a larger team this time around, the Cyprus meet presents another opportunity for the Malta Masters to showcase their skills on the international stage.
Petra Ellul-Mercer, one of the team's swimmers, is excited for the challenge. "The competition is important, but what makes Masters swimming special is the camaraderie. We push each other to do our best, but we're all there for the love of the sport," he said.
The team, competing in age groups ranging from 25 to 69, has been training hard under coaches Andy Colburn, Emma Tanti, Gail Rizzo, and Edward Caruana Dingli. Leading up to the Cyprus meet, they participated in the ASA October Time Trials, where they set their entry times in various events. The focus has been on refining techniques and improving endurance, preparing for both individual and relay events.
Coach Andy emphasised the team's goal beyond just competition: "We aim to promote healthy living through swimming and encourage more people to get involved, regardless of age."
The Road to Limassol
The lead-up to the Cyprus competition has been rigorous, with team members training diligently under their experienced coaches: Andy Colburn, Emma Tanti, Gail Rizzo, and Edward Caruana Dingli. The swimmers have been fine-tuning their techniques and building their endurance over months of preparation, culminating in the ASA October Time Trials, where they set their official entry times across a variety of swim disciplines. These trials allowed each swimmer to gauge their readiness and push for personal bests, giving them the confidence to face the international competition ahead.
"Our aim is not just to compete, but to keep promoting healthy living through swimming," said Coach Andy. "The Malta Masters team stands as a testament to the power of community, and we hope to inspire others to take up the sport, no matter their age."
The Cyprus International Masters Swim Meet attracts athletes from all over the world, including Greece, Russia, the Netherlands, Italy, and England. The Maltese swimmers will compete in both short- and long-distance races, along with mixed and non-mixed relay events. These relay events are a key highlight, promoting teamwork and bringing the group together.
Looking Ahead
As the team heads to Cyprus, their focus remains on personal improvement and teamwork. With a combination of experience and fresh talent, the Malta Masters are ready to give their best and continue making their mark in the Masters swimming community
A Broader Mission
Beyond the pool, the Malta Masters team continues to promote their broader mission of fostering healthy living through swimming. The growing interest in Masters swimming highlights the team's efforts to show that swimming is not just for the young, but for the young at heart. Whether in their 20s or 60s, these athletes are proving that age is no barrier to competitive excellence or personal fulfilment. Malta Masters is supported by Visit Malta as a main sponsor of the Malta team. Good Luck!