Fiji Swimming has organised a GoFundMe page for an Aqua Challenge to help pay their swimmers levies for the Pacific Mini Games in Palau next month. Team manageress Cheyenne Rova said the Aqua Challenge aims to raise $48k for the 16 athletes who are levied $3000 each. These athletes include 2023 Pacific Games gold medallists Kelera Mudunasoko and Hansel McCaig. The Aqua Challenge began on May 10 and will end on June 10 where each swimmer is committed to completing a minimum of 40 kilometres during this period, totaling 640km as a team. “This initiative not only helps our athletes prepare for the games but also promotes water safety and mental wellness’ within our community,” Rova said. “We aim to encourage everyone in the community to collectively cover a minimum of 3km per person.” Fiji Swimming is inviting local businesses, community members and swimming enthusiasts to join them in this worthy cause. They would also further their goal from 640km to reaching 1000 km or beyond. “You can contribute to the total distance by swimming anywhere in the world -whether it’s in your local pool, the ocean, a lake or any safe swim location of your choice. “We’re giving back 10% of the funds raised to local water safety initiatives.” The team is coached by Willie Elaisa and Sharon Smith. Swimming is one of the 12 sports represented under Team Fiji’s banner at the Games. Other sports include archery, athletics, baseball (men), basketball, para athletics, para table tennis, triathlon, va’a, beach & indoor volleyball (women) and weightlifting. Feedback: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj