The C.A.C. Games Open Water Swimming Qualifier and the Himno y Bandera Open Water Challenge brought an unforgettable weekend of international competition, local pride and celebration to the beautiful waters of Mangel Halto, Aruba. Bringing together athletes from across the region, Aruba once again proved itself as a world-class destination for Open Water swimming.
From the Opening Ceremony to the final medal presentations, the event showcased the very best of Open Water swimming — combined with Aruba’s unique energy and hospitality.
Opening Ceremony – A Celebration of Culture and Sport
The weekend officially began with a vibrant Opening Ceremony, where Aruba’s culture took center stage. A lively brass band and carnival dancers welcomed athletes and delegations, setting the tone for the days ahead.
Participating countries were proudly presented one by one, led by the young talents of Aruba’s aquatics community, creating a meaningful connection between the next generation and the international stage.
Course Familiarization – Discovering Mangel Halto
Ahead of competition, athletes entered the waters of Mangel Halto for course familiarization.
After only seeing the ocean since their arrival to Aruba, this was their first true experience of the race conditions — allowing them to feel the currents, understand the course layout and prepare for the challenges ahead.
10K Qualifier – International Competition & Aruba Success
Day 1 featured the 10K C.A.C. Games Open Water Swimming Qualifier, bringing together top athletes from across the region. The races delivered high-level competition, thrilling finishes and strong performances in both the men’s and women’s fields. Diego Vera Delgado (VEN) for the men and Cibelle Eichelberger Jungblut (BRA) for the women took home the Gold.
🇦🇼 A proud moment for Aruba:
Four of our five athletes qualified for the Central American & Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic:
- Britta Schwengle
- Emma Gobert
- Jayrick Winterdal
- Matthew Gobert
An incredible achievement and a testament to their dedication and hard work.
Click to View full album 10K Men
Click to View full album 10K Women
Click to View full album 10K Medal Ceremony
3K & 1K Open Water Swims – Local Success & National Pride
Day 2 continued with the 3K and 1K Open Water Swims, where local and international swimmers shared the course. These races were filled with energy, strong performances and inspiring moments — especially from our local athletes.
🇦🇼 Hearing the Aruban national anthem during the medal ceremonies at an international event was truly a special and emotional moment, highlighting the success of our swimmers on home soil.
3K Knockout Sprint – High Intensity Racing
The weekend concluded with the exciting 3K Knockout Sprint, a fast-paced, multi-round format that kept athletes and spectators on edge. Diego Vera Delgado (VEN) for the men and Cibelle Eichelberger Jungblut (BRA) for the women once again took home the Gold.
🇦🇼 A standout performance for Aruba:
✨ Britta Schwengle secured a silver medal, an outstanding achievement in a highly competitive international field.
A tremendous feat and a proud moment for Aruba.
View full album 3K Knock Out Sprint
Medal Ceremonies – Celebrating Achievement
The event day closed with the final medal ceremonies, celebrating the performances, dedication and achievements of all athletes on the 3K, 1K and 3K Knock Out Sprint.
From international podium finishes to local victories, these moments captured the spirit of the entire weekend — pride, joy and accomplishment.
View full album Medal Ceremony Sunday
A Team Effort – Thank You
Events like this are only possible through the dedication and support of many. We extend our sincere thanks to:
🙌 Our Volunteers:
Your energy, commitment and passion were the foundation of this event.
🎖 Our Officials
Your professionalism and expertise ensured a fair and high-quality competition.
🤝 Our Sponsors & Partners
We proudly thank all our partners for their support in making this event possible:
- Citizens Insurance
- Aruba Tourism Authority
- Glitz Casino
- HBN Law & Tax
- Signs 365
- Driftwood
- OT2 Agency
- Martijn Trading Aruba
- Romar Trading
- PFK
- IMC Corporate Services
Your support contributes directly to the development of aquatics sport in Aruba.
Looking Back on an Unforgettable Weekend
Together, we created an international event that showcased sport, community and the beauty of Aruba. From the first notes of the Opening Ceremony to the final medals awarded, this weekend will be remembered as a true celebration of Open Water swimming.
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