The forthcoming World Aquatics Swimming World Cup 2023 event in Berlin, scheduled for 6-8 October, will include the debut of the World Aquatics open category. This pioneering pilot project highlights the organization’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity, welcoming swimmers of all sex and gender identities.
The open category will spotlight races in the 50m and 100m distances across all strokes, with the possibility of introducing additional events. All competitions will take place in a 50m pool, adhering to international standards. Participants in the open category will compete over two days in timed finals. To be eligible, swimmers need an affiliation with a national federation and will be given the flexibility to participate individually, for their club, team, or as national federation members.
Detailed entry requirements and entry times and process information will be available soon. For this inaugural event, the emphasis is on gaining further experience for future development and celebrating diversity.
“When World Aquatics instituted its Policy on Eligibility for the Men’s and Women’s Competition Categories, we committed to exploring the creation of an open category,” said World Aquatics President Husain Al-Musallam. “True to our word, a team of experts has diligently worked to make this a reality. I would like to thank all those who have helped World Aquatics to deliver this opportunity.”
Deutscher Schwimm-Verband Vice President, Kai Morgenroth, expressed his enthusiasm, stating: “Berlin is thrilled to champion this groundbreaking initiative with the full endorsement of the German Swimming Federation. We’re proud to host an event where swimmers can compete without barriers. Berlin is Germany’s hub for diversity and inclusion and therefore the perfect location for such a progressive project.”
Held across three days, the Berlin Swimming World Cup promises a stellar lineup, featuring many top performers from the recent World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka 2023. Moreover, it serves as a pivotal stepping stone towards the World Aquatics Championships in Doha 2024 and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
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