Sentosa Venue Races Against Time to Finalize Preparations for Championships

In late June, the high diving tower at the venue was already finished, and workers were filling the dive pool. According to Mr. Harry Yap, the venue manager for the championships' Sentosa events, the remaining tasks were minor touch-ups.

These touch-ups included applying anti-slip material to the dive platforms, finishing wheelchair ramps, and installing panels on the scaffolding. Mr. Yap explained that a professional engineer was needed to determine structural elements and loading capacity, following World Aquatics' specifications. The designs and drawings then had to be approved by government bodies to ensure the safety of the structures.

Construction of the venue began less than three months before the event. Mr. Yap highlighted the tight timeline as a significant challenge, with construction starting on April 14th. He praised the contractors for adhering to the strict schedule. The dive pool was being filled to check for leaks and address any potential issues.

On competition day, a team of medical and safety professionals will be present. Mr. Yap stated that two to three scuba divers would act as lifeguards in the pool, and paramedics would be available on the pool deck.

Ms. Kenza Brouwer, assistant venue manager for the championships' Sentosa events and course officer for open water swimming, mentioned that extensive preparations had been underway. Her team was scheduled to mark the course in the water for the races, which would range from 3km to 10km.