By Nangamso Mabindla
5 April 2005

THE JOAN Harrison swimming complex in East London will be the centre of attraction for the next five days as the country's best swimmers make a splash in the Telkom Swimming Aquatic Championships.

The championships, which started on Monday April 4, bring together most of the elite swimmers in the country and youngsters out to make their mark on the world stage.

Among the eminent athletes taking part in the event are Olympic Gold Medalists Ryk Neethling, Roland Schoeman, Rory Townsend, Olympic Silver Medalist Terrence Parkin and multiple paralympian Gold Medalist Natalie du Toit taking part.

Speaking at the opening of the games, Councillor John Badenhorst said the city was privileged to host some of the country's top athletes.

"It shows that people are starting to realise our potential; and I am sure these games will boost the sport in the Border Region and the province as a whole," said Badenshorst.

It was also fitting that the championships that breed future Olympians be held at the Joan Harrison Swimming Complex. Harrison herself was an Olympic Gold Medalist when she won the 100m backstroke in Helsinki in 1952.

"It will be even better if a local swimmer would emerge as one of the stars here at these championships," added Badenshorst. "I would like to thank the sponsor Telkom for investing money in the future of the swimming in the country."

But the capacity crowd did not go to the championships to listen to speeches; they went to see their heroes in actions. And, they weren't disappointed with Schoeman, Townsend and Neethling making it to tonight's 50m freestyle final.

However, the biggest cheer went to swimming sensation Natalie du Toit who came second in her 400m freestyle semis competing against able-bodied swimmers. The enthusiastic crowd rooted for all disabled swimmers participating in the championships.

The games will end on Friday April 8.