Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1542644
5 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 16 JANUARY 2026 SPORTS Gozo to host international artistic swimming championships in April THE Gozo Indoor Sports and Aquatic Pavilion will host the 4th Artistic Swimming Open National Championships be- tween 9 and 12 April 2026, bringing local and internation- al athletes to the island for four days of competition. The championships, organ- ised by the Aquatic Sports As- sociation of Malta (ASA), are expected to attract clubs and national teams from Malta and abroad, further strengthening Gozo's role as a venue for in- ternational sporting events. All competitions will take place at the Gozo Indoor Sports and Aquatic Pavilion in Rabat, a facility designed to host in- ternational-standard aquatic events. The championships will feature a wide range of catego- ries, from Under 12s to Senior level, with events including so- lo, duet, team, technical and acrobatic routines, in line with World Aquatics artistic swim- ming regulations. ASA president Karl Izzo said the 2026 edition builds on the success of the previous three championships and that the organising committee is aim- ing to ensure high standards in line with European and world regulations. The event will be managed by competition man- ager Hannah Preca Trapani. Beyond the sporting pro- gramme, Visit Gozo will host a free cultural activity on 13 April, offering participants and visitors an opportunity to experience Gozitan traditions and local heritage. The activity will be open to the public and is intended to complement the championships by promoting Gozo as both a sporting and cultural destination. Accommodation for visiting teams will be centred around the Grand Hotel Gozo, with transport provided between Malta International Airport, the hotel and the competition venue for those staying at the official accommodation. The event is expected to con- tribute to Gozo's sports tour- ism sector during the spring period, attracting athletes, offi- cials and accompanying family members to the island. The 4th Artistic Swimming Open National Championships between 9 and 12 April 2026, bringing local and international athletes to the island for four days of competition All competitions will take place at the Gozo Indoor Sports and Aquatic Pavilion in Rabat, a facility designed to host international-standard aquatic events