Taranto: Cyprus Federation of Underwater Activities (CFUA) will be taking part in fin swimming for the first time in the Mediterranean Games that begin August 21 in the Italian city of Taranto, following a decision by the Cyprus Olympic Committee (COE).
According to Cyprus News Agency, Nikolaos Morias Hadjipanagis will compete in the sport, marking a historic milestone as highlighted by CFUA Head George Minas. The Federation has dedicated years to promote underwater sports, and Hadjipanagis's participation signifies a major achievement.
Nikolaos Hadjipanagis is set to compete in the 50m freestyle event using a monofin. The event, held in an indoor pool, challenges athletes to cover the 50-meter distance underwater in the shortest time possible. The competition schedule includes a qualifying round and final, set for August 26 and 27.
Technical Swimming, also known as Fin Swimming, is a competitive underwater sport that demands speed, technique, strength, endurance, and superior breath control. Athletes may use double fins or a single fin, depending on the event. In apnea events, competitors must cover the distance beneath the water's surface.
Hadjipanagis currently holds the Cyprus record in the Dynamic Apnea event, with an impressive performance of 174.5 meters. This event, conducted in a swimming pool, involves the athlete using a single fin to cover the maximum possible distance underwater on a single breath.
In his statements, Hadjipanagis expressed his aim to have a respectable presence at the Games and is determined to deliver his best performance.