The coastal city of Mangaluru is set to become the epicenter of underwater sports in India as it prepares to host the 5th National Finswimming Championship 2025. The prestigious event, organized by the Underwater Sports Federation of India (USFI) in collaboration with the Physical Education Foundation of India (PEFI) and the Karnataka Finswimming Association, will take place at the Yemmekere International Swimming Pool from December 19 to 22, 2025.
Unprecedented Scale and Participation
Addressing journalists, renowned Dronacharya awardee swimming coach Tapan Panigrahi revealed that the upcoming championship has shattered all previous records for participation. The event has witnessed an overwhelming response, with more than 1,400 swimmers officially registered. These athletes hail from over 400 districts spread across 30 states, solidifying the championship's status as one of the largest and most diverse national finswimming gatherings in the country's history.
The four-day sporting spectacle will be a fierce battleground, featuring a staggering 144 competitive events. Across all age groups and both genders, participants will vie for a total of 458 medal positions, promising intense competition and thrilling races for spectators.
West Bengal Aims to Defend Dominance
All eyes will be on the contingent from West Bengal, which enters the championship carrying the weight of expectation as the three-time defending National Overall Champion. The state's consistent supremacy in previous editions has firmly established it as a powerhouse in Indian finswimming. The team from Bengal will be under pressure to maintain its winning streak and secure a fourth consecutive overall title, setting the stage for a compelling narrative of dominance and challenge.
Logistics, Safety, and Promoting Clean Sport
The organizing committee, led by the Karnataka Finswimming Association, has held detailed discussions to ensure seamless accommodation, travel, and logistical arrangements for the hundreds of athletes and officials. Acknowledging current travel challenges, including uncertainties related to flights, the committee has assured that robust contingency plans are ready to guarantee smooth participation for every team.
Athlete safety and welfare have been declared the top priority for the event. The organizers have committed to strictly implementing all necessary safety protocols and precautionary measures to ensure a secure and well-managed environment for everyone involved, including participants, officials, and guests.
A significant and commendable highlight of this year's championship is the proactive involvement of the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA). From the very first day of competition, NADA officials will conduct daily anti-doping awareness sessions targeted at athletes and coaches. This initiative underscores a strong commitment to fostering clean sport, ethical competition, and true sportsmanship at the grassroots of this growing discipline.
With record-breaking participation, high-stakes competition, and a firm emphasis on integrity and safety, the 5th National Finswimming Championship in Mangaluru is poised to be a landmark event for underwater sports in India.
