PHILIPSBURG--And they're off! Twenty-five swimmers have departed St. Maarten today to represent the island at the 2026 OECS Swimming Championships, scheduled for November 6 to 8 at the Rodney Heights Aquatic Centre in Gros Islet, Saint Lucia.
The delegation will compete under the St. Maarten flag, with the selected athletes having earned their places through their hard work, commitment, discipline and dedication during training and competitions.
The 25 swimmers are Adaya Bourne, Aiyana Bourne, Ashni Mahes, Azaiah Duzon, Caithlyn Challenger, Charlotte Challenger, Colin Bootman, Declan Boyd, Emmbriel Flanders, Gabriel Antunez, Holdson Jean-Fort, Iejaelin Richardson, J'aishaa Jeffers, Jayden Williams, Kian Taroenoredjo, Kjeld van der Meer, Maik Croes, Natalia Mullen, Pelaiah Janssen, Sevastian Williams, Sil Vink, Stella Dordevic, Tavare Green, Victoria Otto and Xanisha Fitzpatrick Aventurin.
The coaching staff consists of Coach Dwight Vermeer and Coach Eline Broere. The team traveled with delegation leaders.
With the championships set to begin on November 6, the St. Maarten delegation is now heading to Saint Lucia, ready to represent the island at the regional swimming competition.