Two young swimmers from St. Kitts and Nevis are representing their nation at the PanAm Aquatics Age Group Championship in Ibague, Colombia. Nanzanu Chiverton and Aunri Pemberton are competing against a large international field, gaining valuable experience that organizers hope will prepare them for future events, including the upcoming Youth Olympic Games.
Young Athletes Compete on International Stage
The PanAm Aquatics Age Group Championship commenced on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, and is scheduled to run until Sunday, July 12, 2026. The event is being held at the Arbeláez Jiménez Olympic Pool complex in Ibague, Colombia. St. Kitts and Nevis sent a small but determined delegation, with swimmers Nanzanu Chiverton and Aunri Pemberton carrying the national flag.
The St. Kitts Aquatics Federation announced the selection of these two athletes, who are accompanied by Head Coach James Weekes. The team departed for Colombia on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. Eldon Thomas, President of the St. Kitts and Nevis Aquatic Federation, and Dennis Knight, President of the St. Kitts Department of Sports, were present at the airport to bid the team farewell and offer their best wishes.
The St. Kitts Aquatics Federation expressed their hopes for the team’s success, stating, “We wish Nazanu, Aunty and Coach James Weekes safe travels, fast swims, personal bests and a successful championship.” This sentiment underscores the federation’s commitment to supporting its athletes as they pursue excellence in the sport.
Gaining Experience for Future Competitions
Participation in the PanAm Aquatics Age Group Championship is seen as a crucial stepping stone for the young athletes. The international exposure gained from competing against swimmers from across the Americas is expected to be instrumental in their development and preparation for the Youth Olympic Games, slated for November.
The federation highlighted that this type of competition provides invaluable experience, allowing athletes to benchmark their performance against international standards and learn from the diverse talent pool present at such events. This experience is vital for building confidence and refining strategies for more significant future competitions.
Athlete Event Details
The young competitors are participating in various events tailored to their age categories:
- Nanzanu Chiverton is competing in the 13-15 years category. Her events include the 50m Freestyle, 100m Freestyle, 50m Butterfly, and 200m Individual Medley.
- Aunri Pemberton is competing in the 16-18 years category. His events include the 50m Breaststroke and 100m Freestyle.
Daily schedules for the athletes involve preliminary heats beginning at 9:00 AM, with finals scheduled for the evening. This demanding schedule allows swimmers to test their endurance and race strategy across multiple events.
A Continental Gathering of Aquatic Talent
The PanAm Aquatics Age Group Championship is a significant regional event, drawing a substantial number of participants. A total of 31 countries are represented, with over 500 athletes competing. These athletes hail from diverse regions, including the Caribbean, South America, Central America, and North America, creating a vibrant and competitive atmosphere.
The St. Kitts Aquatics Federation also took the opportunity to acknowledge the ongoing support from the St. Kitts and Nevis Olympic Committee. Their continuous efforts in investing in and promoting the advancement and development of youth sports within the federation are considered essential for nurturing future generations of athletes.
Looking Ahead
As Nanzanu Chiverton and Aunri Pemberton navigate the challenges and opportunities of the PanAm Aquatics Age Group Championship, their performances will be closely watched. Their participation not only showcases their individual dedication but also highlights the growing strength of swimming in St. Kitts and Nevis. The experience gained in Colombia is expected to be a foundational element in their journey towards achieving their athletic aspirations, particularly with the Youth Olympic Games on the horizon.
