From ripples to podiums at Oanob
Lake Oanob Resort came alive over the weekend of 11–12 April 2026 as swimmers from across Namibia gathered for the Pupkewitz–NASFED Open Water Challenge, a vibrant showcase of endurance, talent and community spirit.
Clubs including Aqua, Dolphins, Marlins, Swakopmund and Stones Water Polo Club were well represented, while a number of non-affiliated swimmers added further depth and excitement to the competition.
Among the standout performers, Marlins swimmer Riley Bergh emerged as the top male points scorer with an impressive 72 points. Competing in the 14–15 age group, Bergh dominated across distances, claiming victories in the 3km, 5km and 1500m events, while also finishing second in the 3km knockout.
Close behind was fellow Marlins swimmer Tristan Nell, who amassed 70 points to finish second overall among the men. Nell excelled in the 18–19 category, winning the 10km, 5km, 1500m and the demanding 3km knockout.
In the women’s competition, Lara Steyn of Dolphins led the way with a remarkable 66 points. Her consistency stood out as she secured wins in the 3km and 3km knockout, alongside second place in the 1.5km and third in the 5km.
Experienced campaigner Phillip Seidler of Swakopmund once again demonstrated his class, claiming victories in both the 10km and 5km races. His performance was particularly notable for his speed and efficiency, even lapping some competitors during his races.
Dolphins swimmer Ainoa Naukosho also impressed, securing victories in the 3km and 1.5km events in the 13–14 age group, while Alex Marggraff showed consistency in the 18–19 division with a win in the 1.5km and second-place finishes in both the 5km and 10km races.
In the masters category, Lisa-Mari von Schauroth delivered a commanding display, winning both the 3km and 5km races in the 25–44 division. Young talent was also on display, with Aiden Diehl producing a standout performance to win the 1.5km race in the 12–13 category.
Zafari Zeidler continued her rise in open water swimming, winning the 1.5km in the 16–17 age group and finishing second in both the 5km and 3km knockout, underlining her rapid development in the sport.
Other notable winners included Sandra Menton, Imme Hucke McFarlane and Cias Viljoen, whose performances added to the competitive edge of the weekend.
Equally inspiring were the masters swimmers, who showcased remarkable endurance. Allison Fourie (53) and Lindy van den Bosch (56) both completed the demanding 7.5km event, reinforcing the notion that swimming is a lifelong pursuit.
From rising stars like 12-year-old Julian Erni to seasoned veteran Berrit Graf (68), the event highlighted the inclusivity and depth of Namibia’s swimming community, with athletes of all generations sharing the same waters.
The success of the Pupkewitz–NASFED Open Water Challenge was made possible through the support of the Pupkewitz Foundation, whose sponsorship, along with the guidance of the NASFED Open Water Sub-Committee, ensured a professionally run event.
Organisers also extended their gratitude to the volunteers and officials who kept the competition running smoothly, as well as to the parents and supporters whose encouragement created an atmosphere of unity, resilience and pride — hallmarks of Namibia’s aquatic community.
