Dhiraagu Malé Open swimming competition Gears Up for 2024

Registrations are now open for the Dhiraagu Malé Open, an open water swimming competition jointly organised by Swim Maldives and Dhiraagu. The announcement was made at a press conference held at Dhiraagu’s head office.

Swim Maldives’ President, Hussain Shameem, highlighted that the main purpose of the event is to encourage people to learn how to swim. “There have been a lot of tragedies and loss of life because children and adults don't know how to swim,” he said. “Since 99 per cent of our country is sea, learning to swim is a life-saving skill.”

Dhiraagu’s Brand and Marketing Communications Manager, Mirshan Hassan, expressed their support for the initiative, adding that Dhiraagu actively promotes sports and wellness. He noted their aim this year is to see over 300 participants at the event.
The competition is set to take place on 24 May, starting from 6:00 AM, at Rasfannu Beach in Malé. Shameem confirmed that no other swimming events would be held on that day, allowing all interested swimmers to take part.

This event stands out as the only open water swimming competition in the Maldives endorsed by the Sports Commissioner this year. It features various age categories, including under 10, 10–12, 13–14, 14–19, 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, and 50+. Children under 10 will only compete in the 250-meter race, while others can choose between 250 meters and 1 kilometer.
Medals will be awarded to the top three swimmers overall and in each age group.

Since its first edition in 2019, the Malé Open has grown in size and vision. Shameem concluded by sharing a long-term goal—to develop local swimmers capable of competing in Olympic-level open water events.