PNG National Swimming Names Squad After National Championships

Papua New Guinea Swimming Inc (PNGSI) successfully hosted the 2026 Theodist PNG National Swimming Championships from 27 to 29 March 2026, at the Taurama Aquatic and Indoor Centre.

A total of 85 swimmers competed across the championships, representing the Boroko Amateur Swim Club, Lae Amateur Swim Club, PNG Masters Club, and the visitors. 

The weekend showcased a high standard of competition, with swimmers delivering outstanding performances and results that reflect the continued growth of swimming in Papua New Guinea.

The following records were broken across events and age groups: 

Jhnayali Tokome-Garap (17) – PNGR

• 100m Freestyle – 1:02.31

• 50m Backstroke – 32.62

• 50m Butterfly – 30.92

Holly John (25–29) – PNGR / PNGA

• 200m Freestyle – 2:25.54

Marton Keri (30–34) – PNG / PNGR / PNGA

• 200m Individual Medley – 2:25.10

Alice MacPhillamy (35–39) – PNGR / PNGA

• 50m Backstroke – 39.92

Rob Chrzescijanski (40–44) – PNG / PNGR / PNGA

• 100m Breaststroke – 1:13.23 (PNG & PNGR / PNGA)

• 50m Breaststroke – 31.76 (PNG & PNGR / PNGA)

Carlos Martinez Corso (50–54) – PNG / PNGR/ PNGA

• 50m Freestyle – 33.01

• 50m Backstroke – 45.39

Tracy Nen (55–59) – PNG / PNGR / PNGA

• 50m Freestyle – 44.87

Francis Tau (65–69) – PNG / PNGR / PNGA

• 100m Freestyle – 1:13.82

• 50m Freestyle – 31.54

• 50m Butterfly – 35.63

Mixed Mens Masters Relay – PNG / PNGR / PNGA

Marton Keri, Ryan Pini, Rob Chrzescijanski & David Bishop

• 4x50m Freestyle – 1:50.33

The Championships also served as a qualifying event for selection into the National Aquatic Excellence Squads. PNGSI is pleased to announce that thirty-five swimmers have been named across the various squad categories.

Gold Target: Thomas Chen, Josh Tarere, Jhnayali Tokome-Garap.

Silver Target: Joanna Chen, Roxanne Kirarock, Nicholas Vava.

Bronze Target: Holly John, Ashton Nasinom, Sujith Noka, Joshua Vavar, Tehila Vavar.

Gold Intermediate: Arianna Asigau.

Silver Intermediate: Micah Belarmino, Ethan Exton, Isaac Gure, Celin Joe, Emanuela Martinez.

Santos, Jahleel Masalo, Bernelle Murray, Paul Paul, Khy-Lani Sam, Shauntle Thavara, Ethel Tom,Lachlan ToRobert, Fiona Wei

Gold Junior: Nate Pini.

Silver Junior: Sophia Khloe Balaoing, George Bishop, Celestee Chanoan, Maxwell Ikosi, Joshua Maguma, Ilya Savitski, Racheal Sun, Romania Thavara, Lara ToRobert.

PNGSI extends its sincere appreciation to the championship’s sponsor, Theodist Limited, for its continued support of this prestigious annual event, both financially and in kind.

PNGSI also extends its gratitude to the host club, Boroko Swimming Club, its executive members, and all technical officials who officiated in the three-day and four-day sessions of the competition. 

The contribution of volunteers remains vital, and PNGSI acknowledges their dedication to supporting athletes and strengthening the swimming community.