KUCHING: Irish Olympic gold medallist, Daniel Wiffen, will undergo training in Kuching as part of his adaptation to Asian conditions.
He is scheduled to arrive on Friday, July 11, and will remain in Sarawak until July 23.
His training programme will take place at the Sarawak State Youth and Sports Complex during the first week, followed by sessions at the Pandelela Rinong Aquatic Centre.
The 22-year-old long-distance specialist made headlines at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, winning gold in the 800-metre (m) freestyle and bronze in the 1500m freestyle, before going on to claim double gold in the same events at the 2024 World Aquatics Championships in Doha, Qatar.
Wiffen also holds the short-course world record in the 800m freestyle, clocking an astonishing 7:20.46.
His presence here was confirmed by Power Aquatics Swimming Club (PASC) adviser, Voon Yong Hui, who said the Olympic champion chose Sarawak to better adapt to the regional time zone and climate.
“He’s here to adapt to the time zone and tropical weather. His coach will also be joining him,” Voon told Sarawak Tribune today.
Wiffen’s visit adds to Sarawak’s growing reputation as a training hub for top swimmers, thanks to strong facilities and clubs like PASC.
His training stint in Kuching shows the city’s potential as a top destination for international swimming.
