The International Swimming Federation (FINA) has announced that the 2019 Southeast Asian Games has been certified as a qualifier for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
“We have the pleasure to inform you that FINA has approved the following competitions as meets where swimmers can achieve the FINA ‘A’ and ‘B’ standard qualifying times,” read FINA’s statement that was penned by executive director Cornel Marculescu.
“We would appreciate receiving the official results by email ([email protected]) immediately after the conclusion of the above-mentioned meets.”
The letter was received by Philippine Swimming Inc. president Lani Velasco.
Velasco and the federation will need to provide FINA with the results from all events during the Manila Games, set from November 30 to December 11.
“We are very grateful that FINA has approved the 30th Southeast Asian Games as a qualifying meet for the Tokyo Olympics,” expressed Velasco.
“This unprecedented event is a great opportunity for our swimmers in the attainment of our goals in Philippine swimming. Let us not waste this chance by infighting and bickering, but instead work in a spirit of unity and cooperation.”
In preparation for the Games, Velasco and the PSI called for an open tryout regardless of club and affiliation.
