Lani Cabrera and Mathew Courtis, the two overseas-based Barbadian swimmers, were scheduled to arrive last night and join the 16 others who will represent the island at the LIME CARIFTA Swimming Championships from April 23 to 26 at the Aquatic Centre.
Cabrera is based in the United States and Courtis is in England. Sonia O’Neal, president of the Barbados Amateur Swimming Association (BASA), told NATIONSPORT the feedback from coaches at the training sessions had been positive.
The swimmers had a session with nutritionist Kimberley Rudder and clinical psychologist Beverley Drakes will conduct her session on Saturday afternoon at the Barbados Beach Club.
O’Neal said they had been forced to trim the budget from $200 000 in light of the recession, but would still be giving Barbadians and visitors a quality meet.
“It has been progressing quite well from the point of view that the accommodation, transportation arrangement, the actual readiness of the pool and everything surrounding the pool are on target,” the president said.
She added that in spite of the challenges of funding, the swimming association would be putting on a creditable 2011 championships.
Barbados is one of 15 countries taking part in this year’s championships. The team comprises 13 females and five males.
There will also be Under-15 water polo teams from Netherlands Antilles and Trinidad and Tobago in action from April 29 to May 1.
Two synchronized swimmers will be performing their routine at the opening ceremony. They were denied the chance to compete when this segment was cancelled because of low participation.