Aruba Dolphins Open Water 2026 brought together 127 participants on Sunday, September 27, at Commandeurs Bay in Savaneta for a morning of competition, sportsmanship and inclusion. Families, friends and supporters gathered along the shore to cheer on the swimmers and create an enthusiastic atmosphere.
Organized by Aruba Dolphins Swimming & Waterpolo Club, the event featured 1-, 3- and 5-kilometer races, as well as a 1.5-kilometer relay with teams of three swimmers. The event also attracted swimmers from the United States and the Netherlands, alongside local participants.
Swimmers of different ages and skill levels entered the water with their own goals, whether they were aiming for a podium finish, looking to improve their performance or simply hoping to complete the distance. Support from the shore encouraged them throughout the races, with each swimmer’s finish celebrated by family, friends and fellow participants.
Inclusion was also an important part of the event. One swimmer took part by towing a kayak carrying an athlete with a disability, allowing them to participate in the competition together. Their motto, “Helping people with disabilities reach their goals in the world of sports,” was reflected in their participation and demonstrated how cooperation can help create more opportunities in sports.
Overall winners
In the 1-kilometer race, Xylan Anthony was the overall male winner with a time of 15:14.0, while Eva Kock won the female category in 15:17.1.
Zayron Werleman won the male category in the 3-kilometer race with a time of 41:19.2, while Ginayla Arends was the overall female winner in 47:56.5.
In the 5-kilometer race, Matthew Gobert finished as the overall male winner in 1:10:14.9, while Chloë-Nicole Dirksz won the female category in 1:19:52.4.
Aruba Dolphins congratulated all the winners and participants for their effort and perseverance.
A shared effort
The event also served as a fundraiser to support the club and the development of its swimmers. Aruba Dolphins thanked the companies and individuals who helped make the event possible, as well as Minister Gerlien Croes for her support and 297 Sport for its coverage.
The club also expressed special thanks to Roly and Winnie Bisslik, Hedy Slikker-Bisslik, the Bisslik and Schwengle families, Oma Greta, Oma Nina, Shanella Garido and Jenny van den Hengel, as well as all the families who contributed space, equipment, food and time.
Recognition was also given to Meet Director Louella Maduro and her team, the officials, kayak safety crew, volunteers and parents for their dedication.
Aruba Dolphins said it was proud of an event that brought together athletic achievement, participation and solidarity. The club thanked everyone who helped make Open Water 2026 possible and continues to support the development of swimming in Aruba.
