Lake Oanob Resort came alive on 11–12 April 2026 as swimmers across all ages competed in the Pupkewitz-Nasfed Open Water Challenge, a thrilling event that drew athletes from Aqua, Dolphins, Marlins, Swakopmund, and Stones Water Polo Club, alongside spirited non-affiliated competitors.
Riley Bergh (Marlins) was the top scorer for the men, dominating with 72 points, and winning multiple events in his 14-15 year age group including the 3km, 5km, and 1 500m events as well as coming second in the 3km knockouts.
Tristan Nell (Marlins) was close behind,coming second overall for men with 70 points, excelling in the 18-19 age group by winning the 10km, 5km, 1 500m and the 3km knockout.
Lara Steyn (Dolphins) led the women with a staggering 66 points, leading her 15-16 age group by winning the 3km and 3km knockout and coming second in the 1.5km and third in the 5km events, showing consistency across distances.
Phillip Seidler (Swakopmund) impressed with victories in the 10km and 5km races and stunned everyone with his speed and agility even overlapping some competitors in both his races.
Ainoa Naukosho (Dolphins) claimed wins in the 3km and 1.5km races in the 13-14 age group.
Alex Marggraff showed his consistency in the 18-19 age group by winning the 1.5km race and claiming second places in both the 5km and 10km races.
Lisa-Mari von Schauroth claimed first places in both the 3km and 5km in the 25-44 masters age group.
Aiden Diehl impressed with his fast win in the 1.5km 12-13 age group.
Zafari Zeidler surprised many with her growing strength in open water swimming, securing first place in her 16-17 age group in the 1.5km and second places in the 5km and 3km knockout events.
Swimmers like Sandra Menton, Imme Hucke McFarlane and Cias Viljoen with their respective wins all made the competition worthwhile.
Equally inspiring were the masters swimmers, who demonstrated remarkable endurance over long distances. Allison Fourie (53) and Lindy van den Bosch (56) both completed the demanding 7.5km event showing that passion and perseverance truly transcend age. Their achievements remind all that swimming is a lifelong pursuit.
From rising juniors like 12‑year‑old Julian Erni to seasoned veterans such as 68‑year‑old Berrit Graf, the Pupkewitz-Nasfed Open Water Challenge truly showcased endurance across generations. This wide spectrum of competitors highlighted both the depth of Namibia’s aquatic talent and the inclusive spirit of the event.
The success of the Pupkewitz Nasfed Open Water Challenge was made possible through the collective effort of many. The Pupkewitz Foundation’s generous sponsorship, together with the guidance of the Nasfed Open Water Sub Committee, ensured a professionally run competition that celebrated both elite performance and community spirit.
Special thanks go to the volunteers and officials, whose dedication kept the event running smoothly, and to the parents and supporters, whose encouragement and logistical support uplifted every athlete. Their combined efforts created an atmosphere of unity, resilience, and pride – hallmarks of Namibia’s aquatic community.
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