Sport
27 April, 2026
Top para-swimmers training in Cairns
INTERNATIONAL and Australian para swimmers are training in Cairns, joining local athletes in the lead-up to a regional development session.
Ahmed Kelly, a four-time Australian Paralympian, and Muhammed Aasim, an S2 swimmer from India, are training at Trinity Bay State High School with Grant “Scooter” Patterson and the local squad for three weeks.
Mr Kelly, an S3 swimmer from Melbourne, and Mr Aasim, who competed at the World Champs in Singapore, are in Cairns to work alongside Patterson and the Far North Queensland program.
Herbie Howard, head coach at Herb’s Training and Swim School and Central Cairns Swimming Inc, said the visit presented a strong opportunity for local swimmers.
“Just letting you know we have a couple of extra para swimmers training at Trinity Bay State High School with Grant ‘Scooter’ Patterson and our team for the next three weeks,” Mr Howard said.
Training sessions are being held Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 5pm, Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 5.30am to 7am and Saturday at 7am.
The visiting athletes are also expected to take part in the FNQ Para Swimming Hub Session No. 3 on Friday 24 April at Trinity Bay State High School pool in Hoare St.
The session will focus on stroke development and modifications, with organisers saying it will provide relevant disability information for swim schools, training programs and swimming clubs.
It is aimed at swimmers progressing towards competition at club nights, school swimming carnivals, local events and higher-level competition, as well as their teachers and coaches.
The visit coincides with Far North Queensland swimmers competing at the Australian Open and Age Championships on the Gold Coast from April 4 to 18.
Fifteen swimmers from the region are representing FNQ at the national event.
The training camp and upcoming session are expected to support local pathways and strengthen para swimming development across the region.
