Kiran set to make comeback

National swimming champion ‘surprised’ at being selected for Asian event.

KARACHI: National champion Kiran Khan is looking forward to making a comeback after a year’s break as she prepares to represent Pakistan in the Asian Swimming Championship that will begin on November 17 in Dubai.

The 22-year-old, who was sidelined by the Pakistan Swimming Federation (PSF) for this year’s Olympics, said the announcement of her nomination for the championship came as a shock to her.

Kiran had participated at the Shanghai FINA Championships last year and bagged three gold medals in the National Games for Army. Her biggest career feat has been her participation at the 2008 Olympics for Pakistan.

“It is indeed a comeback for me, but this championship really isn’t an important one,” Kiran told The Express Tribune. “It’s a short course so it isn’t a big deal like the other lengthy ones which are more critical and test the endurance and quality of a swimmer.

“I’m surprised that the PSF considered me after all this time. I’m thankful to them, but it’s not a major event. It’s more appropriate for the juniors. I’m just participating in it because I want to represent my country.”

Besides the Asian Championship, Kiran is also preparing for the National Games. But she feels that the standard will leave much to be desired since the Games are being held in December and the participants will be at risk for a cold and injuries.

“I am surprised the federation is ignoring basic factors. I have to go to a public pool to practise and the winters will pose problems for me as the swimming season is off then. Plus it’s bad for the fitness and health of the swimmers.”

The swimming squad for the event also includes Areesha Saif, Anisha, Liana Swann and Sikandar Khan.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 9^th, 2012.