BASSETERRE, St. Kitts -- Troy Nisbett, the young swimmer from the Federation competing at the 2024 Paris Olympics, showed grit and determination in challenging circumstances to swim a personal best time this morning (Aug. 1).
Nisbett competed in the Men's 50m Individual Freestyle, one of the toughest events in the pool, often described as a 'mad dash.' Racing in the second of 10 heats, Nisbett placed fifth out of seven competitors, posting a respectable time of 28.72 seconds for a junior. This was 1.28 seconds behind the heat winner, Kinono Phillip.
Though his time was not enough to advance to the next round, Nisbett placed 69th out of 73 overall in what is often classified as one of the toughest races in the pool, where the outcome can change in the blink of an eye.
James Weekes, the National Coach and of Nisbett, at a press conference on the eve of the race, told reporters in Basseterre that the junior was looking forward to competing. Weekes explained that Nisbett had been competing in regional meets to prepare for the event.
A significant concern for many is the lack of proper exposure and competition that the young swimmer needs to hone his skills at the age of 15, as the Federation lacks an Olympic-sized swimming pool. Nisbett and others have been forced to train in a makeshift facility in the Caribbean Sea prior to competitions.
Many in the public, including swimming enthusiasts, hope that the government will now consider providing support for the sport and the National Aquatics Federation to further enhance the sport and support young athletes.