Sierra Leone Swimmers Break National Records At World Championship

Sierra Leone swimming pair, Sahr James and Osman Kamara returned home from Spain with new national records in the just concluded 15th FINA World Championships in Barcelona.

The pair was unable to secure any laurels for the country but they did very well setting new national records respectively for the country. Sahr James now holds the country’s record in both the 50 meters Breast & Back Stroke after clocking 37.26 seconds and 37.36 seconds respectively.

Osman Kamara now holds the national records in the 50 meters Butterfly after clocking 35.66 seconds and 28.30 seconds in the Free Style at the World Championships.

President of the Sierra Leone Swimming, Diving and Water pooling Association (SLSDWA), Mr. Fadlu Deen applauded the swimmers in a press conference at his Walpole Street office for what he describes as an outstanding performance at the championship.

He said despite all the odds in the run up to competition they were able to matchup with the standards of the tournament.

“Your ability to set the local records was amazing to go under such difficult circumstance but you guys make us proud,” Deen said.

The Association Secretary General, Mohamed Turay who also headed the delegation to Barcelona said they are ready to give the sports a new looks adding that their performance in Spain was a clear signal of greater improvement from the swimmers.

The Deputy Minister of Sports, Al Sankoh also applauded the swimmers for their performance and also for them returning home after the championship.

He said: “In the past we had people go out and represent the country who never returned but you guys made us proud by coming back. As a ministry we are pleased to see everybody return which sends a good message about our country.”