Unsolved Nigerian mystery

NINE swimmers from Nigeria could add a truly international feel to this weekend's big 16th NRG Open - should they arrive. Communication with the team from Kwara State has proved difficult since they sent their entries in for the Beau Sejour Barracudas hosted event some time ago, so it is uncertain whether they will take part.

'They made an enquiry about the event, we supplied them with all the information and they sent back an entry form,' said Alison Frankland, the Barracudas coach.

'They obviously wanted to come to Guernsey - it might well be something to do with our Commonwealth Games connections - but we have not heard from them recently.'

It is just possible that since sending their entries, the Nigerian team may have had problems obtaining the necessary visas to come to the island.

They have, though, been included in the programme and should they turn up, the announcer will have a tough time attempting to pronounce names such as Pius Adegboyega and Sunday Ayejo Priye.

Overall, the open will be accommodating around 200 swimmers from the Channel Islands as well as visitors from Basingstoke Blue Fins, City of Lincoln Pentaqua, City of Southampton and Llantrisant Sharks.

Gail Strobridge returns from her university studies to turn out for the host club and is top seed in 11 events in the open age group.

Younger teammates such as Jeremy Osborne, Matthew Allen, Alexander Beaton and Hannah Lamb are set to fare well, with many age group records within their reach.

Other Barracudas such as Jonathon Le Noury, Tom Hollingsworth, Robyn Le Friec, Victoria Parfit and Joshua Lewis are also likely to be regular visitors to the rostrum.

Meanwhile, Guernsey Swimming Club star Ben Lowndes will have his sights on butterfly and freestyle titles while Christine Hume will be chasing breaststroke honours and young Matthew Butt could feature prominently.

A large contingent of Jersey swimmers will be participating and quality performances are expected from Dan Halksworth in the 200m and 400m individual medley.

Of the UK visitors, Basingstoke's Jenna Waite and Carys Walters of Llantrisant will provide tough competition among the girls while Chris Jones of City of Southampton will provide the open men with some good racing.

'This annual event provides the local swimmers with top class competition at home and the Barracudas are grateful to meet secretary Sue Paul and her team for once again organising this event,' said Frankland.