Aquahub Swimming Club returned home from a successful outing at the 19th edition of the Trofeo Piskeo in Messina, Italy, bringing back a haul of five medals and a wealth of personal bests. The meet proved to be a test of strength and spirit for the swimmers as they prepare for the upcoming National Championships later this month.
Samuel Camilleri led the medal tally for Aquahub with a standout performance, claiming two gold medals in the 100m and 200m butterfly, a silver in the 400m freestyle, and a bronze in the 200m freestyle. Sienna Sammut also made it to the podium, securing a bronze medal in the 50m backstroke. Kaitlyn Muscat delivered a determined effort, finishing just shy of the medals with a 4th place in the 400m Individual Medley, one of the most demanding events on the programme.
This competition marked a milestone for Aquahub, as it featured the first international appearance of the club’s Development Squad, made up of swimmers aged 10 to 15. Their participation reflects a long-term investment in their growth and competitive development, exposing them to high-level racing beyond Malta’s shores.
A highlight of the trip was the strong sense of team unity and leadership that emerged. Older swimmers took on mentoring roles, supporting their younger teammates through warm-ups, race preparations, and sidelines encouragement. This culture of camaraderie and support is something Aquahub deeply values and continues to cultivate.
Over 1400 swimmers take part
The 2025 edition of Trofeo Piskeo drew over 1,400 swimmers from 40 clubs across Sicily, northern Italy, and Romania, including several Italian national record holders. The event’s high calibre of competition, spanning young swimmers to open categories, offered an invaluable benchmark for Aquahub’s athletes.
The team of 32 swimmers was led by Head Coach Julian Harding, Coach Kairee Farrugia, and supported by Rossana Oddi. Coach Harding emphasized the importance of such international meets, stating:
“Trofeo Piskeo presents a level of competition higher than what we’re accustomed to locally. Our swimmers rose to the occasion and this experience has given them a clear sense of where they want to be.”
Looking ahead, Aquahub now turns its focus to the Coop Services National Swimming Championships, scheduled for 27 June at the Cottonera Pool. Harding added,
“The progress we’ve seen this season has been phenomenal. The coaching team is encouraged, inspired, and determined to finish the season strong and more united than ever.”
Aquahub extended its gratitude to SportMalta for their partial funding and continued support of the club’s international endeavours.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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