Goa Aquatic Crown 2025, a celebration of endurance, skill

Goa is preparing to host one of the country’s largest open-water swimming championships. The Goa Aquatic Crown 2025, set to take place on April 19-20 at the picturesque Caranzalem Beach, is poised to make a splash on the Indian sports scene.

Organized by the Open Water Swimming Academy (OWSA) in collaboration with the National Institute of Water Sports (NIWS), this event will bring together over 500 athletes from all corners of India to compete in a range of exhilarating races.

From seasoned swimmers to passionate newcomers, participants will dive into four race categories: 1 km, 2 km, 5 km, and the ultimate endurance challenge, the 10 km.

The championship is expected to solidify Goa's growing reputation as a hub for sports tourism and an emerging hotspot for open-water swimming.

VISION FOR THE FUTURE

The Goa Aquatic Crown is not just another sporting event; it is the manifestation of a bold vision shared by the OWSA. The event’s announcement was made at a press conference attended by key figures in the open water swimming community, including Rahul Chiplunkar, Head of Planning & Meet Director at OWSA, and Surjeet Dadiala, Head of Business at OWSA, who emphasised the event’s role in propelling Goa onto the international sports map.

“We are committed to making Goa the epicentre of open water swimming in India,” said Dadiala, underscoring the event’s importance not only for the athletes but for Goa’s sports tourism industry. “The Goa Aquatic Crown 2025 is just the beginning. Our goal is to create a premier competitive environment while promoting Goa as a global destination for open water sports.”

A DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE EVENT

The Goa Aquatic Crown 2025 stands out for its inclusivity. Swimmers from all age groups, ranging from children under 10 to athletes over 60, will be participating, making it a truly diverse competition. Whether it’s the young swimmer dipping their toes into the open water for the first time or the seasoned athlete testing their endurance against the ocean’s waves, this championship caters to all skill levels.

The event will also feature participants from 13 states, further strengthening Goa’s reputation as a prime location for competitive swimming.

GOA THE PERFECT VENUE

“The Goa Aquatic Crown is more than just a championship,” said Subodh Sule, Head of Routes & Pilot at OWSA. “It is an opportunity to showcase Goa as a destination that caters to both sports enthusiasts and tourists. With an increasing number of participants from across India, this event will continue to elevate Goa’s status in the competitive swimming landscape.”

This event, with its clear waters and beautiful beaches, proves that the state has much to offer beyond its traditional appeal as a holiday destination.

INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION

One of the primary goals of the Goa Aquatic Crown 2025 is to inspire the next generation of swimmers. Pavitra Poilkar, Director of Communications at OWSA, highlighted how the event will serve as a stepping stone for young athletes who look up to open water swimming as a potential career path.

“We hope that the Goa Aquatic Crown will motivate young athletes to take the sport seriously,” said Poilkar. “The event will not only bring swimmers together but also inspire them to pursue their dreams of competing at the highest level.”

READY, SET, DIVE

As the days count down to April 19, excitement is building for what promises to be an unforgettable event. Registration is now open, with an entry fee of Rs 1500 per person per event. Aspiring swimmers should act quickly, as registration closes on April 13, 2025.

For more information and registration, visit www.owsaindia.com.