Olympics
From Ripples to Waves: Kenyan Swimmers' Inspiring Journey to Success
Meet Kenyan swimmers Victoria Okumu, Jesse Okumu, and Ibrahim Omar, who overcame challenges and pushed boundaries to win 15 medals at the All-African Universities Games. Discover their inspiring journey, family support, and ambitious goals for the future
Image Credits: Sarah Stier/Getty Images for Saudi Games
The journey of trio swimmers, Victoria Okumu, Jesse Okumu, and Ibrahim Omar was quite similar.
Starting out as swimmers from a tender age, it wasn't an easy ride for the Kenyans, but they persevered, fuelled by passion, determination, and supportive families.
No wonder they excelled in an unfamiliar terrain, Lagos, Nigeria, where they scooped a total of 15 medals during the All-African Universities Games at the University of Lagos.
In an exclusive interview with SportsBoom.com, the trio college swimmers shared their experiences, challenges, and future aspirations, providing a glimpse into the world of competitive swimming.
Both Victoria Okumu and Jesse Okumu are freshmen at the United States International University Africa (USIU - Africa) in Nairobi studying Film Production and Computer Science respectively while Omar Ibrahim is an International Business Administration final year student.
Early beginnings: splashing into the unknown
Victoria, Jesse, and Omar started swimming at a young age, with Victoria beginning at just three years old. Her sister, a seasoned swimmer, inspired her to take the plunge.
"For me, my sister was my inspiration," Victoria said. "She started swimming before me, so I just wanted to be like my sister."
Meanwhile for Jesse Okumu, it started as a hobby when he discovered the love for the sports at age 10.
"I was lucky to have a swimming pool in my primary school," Jesse recalled. "My school really played a significant role in my journey as a swimmer."
Omar's journey was slightly different. His mother introduced him to swimming at age 10, despite initial reluctance.
It's a bit of a funny story. When I was younger, my mum forced me to swim... I didn't like it so much, but I had to do it. About two years later, I started to fall in love with it.
Ibrahim Omar
Overcoming Obstacles: Tides of Resilience
The trio faced various challenges, from waking up early for training to navigating menstrual cramps and mood swings for Victoria.
"As a lady in this sport, you just have to find a way to navigate around it," Victoria explained. "It's hard, yes, we get mood swings and cramps... We just have to get around it, and there's a support system."
But for Jesse, he struggled with consistency and patience.
"Swimming isn't like other sports where you see results immediately," Jesse said. "It takes consistency and diligence... Swimming has really taught me to be patient."
Meanwhile, Omar was able to overcome self-doubt and pressure years after participating in tournaments.
"Sometimes, you feel like giving up," Omar admitted. "But my family and coaches kept pushing me. Now, I'm proud of how far I've come."
Parental guidance: Anchors of Support
Their current states can be credited to the efforts their parents gave to them. The trio swimmers told SportsBoom their parents were anchors that kept them afloat during their trying days.
"My family was very supportive," Jesse said. "Financially, emotionally, mentally... They played a big role in my development."
Victoria's parents drove her to training sessions daily, while Omar's mother introduced him to swimming.
"My parents sacrificed a lot for me," Victoria said. "They'd drive me to training at 5 am, then take me to school. I'm grateful."
My parents sacrificed a lot for me. They'd drive me to training at 5 am, then take me to school. I'm grateful.
Victoria Okumu
Future Goals: Charting New Waters
The trio said what's next is to tick the mech boxes in their lists.
Victoria aims to compete in the World University Games, while Omar seeks to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics since he will be graduating this year.
"The next goal will be to go to Los Angeles in 2028," Omar said. "As soon as I'm done here, I resume back to training, push myself as much as I can for the next two years."
Jesse focuses on improving his times and qualifying for upcoming competitions.
"I want to be the best version of myself," Jesse said. "I'll keep working hard and stay focused."
Beyond Swimming: Life Outside the Pool
Outside the pool, Victoria enjoys golf and running, while Omar is involved in content creation and family businesses.
"I love trying new things," Omar said. "Swimming has opened doors for me, and I'm exploring other passions."
Jesse prioritises education, balancing swimming with studies.
"Education is key," Jesse emphasised. "I want to succeed in both swimming and academics."
Jeremiah Omoniyi is a developmental sports Journalist with over five years of experience writing about grassroots and international football and sporting events. Jeremiah’s forte in sports journalism are feature writing and interviews which he has done to a reasonable amount within his home country, Nigeria.