Strength at sea, speed in the pool

Navy personnel played a key role in the ADF’s first representative swimming team.

The team of 16, including seven Navy members, travelled to Brisbane to compete in the 2026 Masters Swimming Australia National Championships – a landmark moment for Defence sport and the newly formed ADF Swim Sports Association.

Despite being newcomers to the championships, the ADF athletes delivered outstanding performances, returning home with an impressive haul of medals, personal bests and valuable high-level competition experience.

Relay events proved particularly successful, with Defence swimmers combining discipline, teamwork and pace to secure medals across 10 races.

The team results were complemented by strong individual performances, with swimmers excelling within their respective age groups to claim 21 podium finishes across the meet.

LEUT Dana Richards claimed gold in the 1.5km open water event, along with three additional medals in individual pool races.

SMN Todd Barlow also impressed, securing bronze medals in the 200m and 400m freestyle events, while also contributing to medal-winning relays.

LEUT James Christensen competed in nine pool races across the week and the 3km open water race, crossing the line second in his age group.

“Being part of the first ADF swim team was an historic moment,” LEUT Christensen said.

“It helped form lasting relationships and built a strong esprit de corps within the ADF swimming community.”

The ADF Swim Sports Association was established to provide competitive opportunities for serving and reserve members with a passion for swimming.

The success of its inaugural national campaign has laid a strong foundation for future growth, participation and triservice representation.