KAMPALA: NATIONAL Sports Council (NSC) senior officer Charles Maguzu has challenged Tanzania’s swimmers to focus on beating their personal best times rather than simply defeating their rivals as they compete at the 11th Africa Aquatics Zone III Swimming Championships in Kampala, Uganda.
Maguzu made the call during the national team’s farewell ceremony on Tuesday, urging the swimmers to use the regional competition as an opportunity to measure their progress against international standards and build towards greater success.
The championships, taking place at Kampala International School of Uganda (KISU), commenced yesterday and will conclude on Sunday, bringing together swimmers from across East and parts of Central Africa.
“Do not go there just to compete because you can beat someone else from Tanzania. Go and compete against your own time so that you can measure your progress against international standards,” Maguzu said.
He encouraged the team to set ambitious targets beyond the regional competition, saying that a focus on personal improvement would help the swimmers develop the ability to compete at the highest level.
“Do not travel with the dream of winning only in Uganda. Go with the dream of winning at world championships. When you set your sights on bigger goals, you will find yourselves winning competitions such as this one and preparing to represent the country at the highest level,” he added.
Maguzu expressed confidence in the selected squad, dismissing concerns that selection might have been influenced by personal connections rather than merit.
He said the swimmers had been chosen because of their ability and potential to represent Tanzania internationally.
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He also urged the athletes to maintain discipline, listen to their coaches, respect their leaders and remain united throughout the championships.
The NSC official further acknowledged the financial commitment made by parents to support their children’s swimming careers, encouraging them to continue nurturing their talents despite the costs involved.
He pledged the council’s continued cooperation with swimming stakeholders to improve support for the national team, including preparations, transport, presentation and safety during international competitions.
Meanwhile, the national team captain Mark Bazalwa expressed confidence in the squad’s preparations, promising a strong performance in Kampala. “We have prepared well, and we promise you victory,” Bazalwa said.
The team was officially sent off on Tuesday and presented with the national flag ahead of the championships, which feature youth swimming categories, water polo and Masters events.