Antiguan Christal Clashing aims to become 1st female freediver to make national record

Wednesday, 20th March 2024

A swimmer from Antigua and Barbuda Christal Clashing is making attempts at creating history and become the first female freediver from her nation to make a national record. Clashing's journey started back in 2019 when she began her freediving training and discovered a passion for the sport which pushed her towards new heights. Initially, she aims to win the Deep Dominica freediving competition which is scheduled from July 28 to August 4, 2024. She said that she hopes to become the first female freediver in Antigua and Barbuda to set a national record during the competition in Dominica. Budget Marine has also taken the lead as the inaugural corporate sponsor for Island Girls' Crystal Clashing in her groundbreaking endeavour at the Deep Dominica Freediving Competition. Christal Clashing in an Olympic swimming, a member of the first all-black team to row the Atlantic and Pacific oceans and an Antiguan freediver. She is a certified Canadian Swimmer for Life instructor, ASCA swim coach, ACA stand-up paddle instructor and PADI divemaster. She also holds an undergraduate degree in Sports Development and a Master's in Research in Sports Science. While reflecting on her early experiences, she recalled that during her first few attempts, she felt her brain was screaming at herself, 'What are you doing?' but after getting an understanding of everything, she became passionate about freediving as a sport to train and develop for. She also showed her determination to achieve her goal but to compete at her best and setting a national record, the Antiguan Swimmer recognised the need for specialised training in Dominica which is known for providing the best diving conditions in the Eastern Caribbean region. As she aims to make history, she invited support from the community to help her turn the vision into reality. She said that by supporting her, people can invest in something bigger than just a fundraiser and emphasised the transformative effect of collective support of Caribbean athletes like herself. She also expressed her gratitude for the ongoing support and said that she looks forward to sharing her rewards with everyone.