Little mermaid from Meru: Adia dominates Nairobi Swimming Championships

The event, which drew top swimming clubs from across the city, turned into a showcase of pure talent as the seven-year-old from Meru dominated every race she entered.

Among the teams represented were Braeburn, Brookhouse, Kenton College, Makini Schools, Otters, Raptors, Rusinga, The Banda School, St. Austin’s Academy, and Little Fish.

Competing in the Girls 7 and Under category, Adia delivered a flawless performance, bagging gold medals in all her events. She clocked 28.80 seconds in the 25-meter breaststroke, 25.23 in the 25-meter backstroke, 22.14 in the 25-meter butterfly, and 19.29 in the 25-meter freestyle, all first-place finishes.

She also won the 100-meter individual medley in 1:56.17 and the 50-meter freestyle in 43.04 seconds.

Her consistency was remarkable, particularly a 7.38-second improvement in the 100-meter IM, reflecting her dedication and endurance.

Adia’s brilliance also saw her shatter meet records in the 25-meter butterfly, 25-meter freestyle, and 50-meter freestyle for girls aged seven and under.

She was crowned the overall best female swimmer in her category, a moment that drew applause from parents, coaches, and officials.

Nairobi County Swimming Association Chairperson Teddy Wamunyu praised the young star, saying, “Adia is a jewel in swimming and has an incredible future ahead of her. It’s the first time we’ve seen a swimmer from a rural background dominate at this level.”

Her coach, Alex Kaindi, added, “We spotted her talent when she was four years old during the PIPSSA Kenya Gala in Nanyuki. Our dream is to see her reach the Olympics and achieve ‘A’ times. With her commitment and her parents’ support, that goal is very possible.”

Coming from Meru, a region rarely associated with elite swimming, Adia has proven that talent knows no boundaries.

She trains at Highland Group of Schools in Meru, where she also studies, under the guidance of Coach Kaindi. Her weekly schedule includes five training sessions blending pool work and dry-land exercises to build strength and speed.