Official Event Preview
The 35th German Children’s Finswimming Championships (DKM Finswimming 2026) will take place on 28 March 2026 in Halle (Saxony-Anhalt, Germany), confirming its role as one of the most important national events dedicated to young finswimmers. The competition is organized by the German Underwater Federation (VDST) and hosted by SSC Halle – Finswimming and Diving Department .
Venue and Technical Setup
The championships will be held at the Robert Koch Swimming Hall, featuring an 8-lane, 50-meter pool with a water temperature of 27°C. All races will be conducted using electronic timing, ensuring accuracy and fairness for all competitors .
Eligibility and Regulations
Participation is open to athletes born in 2015 or later, provided they hold valid VDST competition rights. Foreign clubs are eligible if their national federation is a member of CMAS. All athletes must present a valid medical certificate (not older than one year) confirming fitness to compete, including diving suitability where required .
The competition follows the VDST Finswimming Competition Rules and national anti-doping regulations. Doping controls may be carried out during the event .
Competition Program
The event consists of a single competition session on Saturday, 28 March 2026, and includes individual and relay races:
- Individual events:
50 m, 100 m, 200 m, and 400 m Finswimming (FS)
50 m Dolphin Kick (DB, with snorkel mandatory) - Relay events:
4×100 m FS Mixed
4×50 m FS Mixed
The dolphin kick events require synchronized fin movement, with alternating kicks prohibited. Only standard commercial bifins are allowed; reinforced or fiberglass fins are strictly forbidden .
Age Categories and Rankings
Athletes are classified into the following categories:
- Category E: Born 2015 (U11)
- Category F: Born 2016 (U10)
- Category G: Born 2017 and younger (U9 and under)
- Relay Category S: Born 2015 and younger
Rankings are separated by gender for individual events, while relays are mixed. Medals and certificates will be awarded to the top three finishers in each category. An additional international ranking may be published if necessary .
Entry Deadlines and Fees
- Entry deadline: 14 March 2026, 23:59
- Entry fees:
€6.00 per individual start
€8.00 per relay start
Clubs must submit entries using the official formats provided by the organizer. Proof of payment must be presented on competition day .
Qualification Times
Participation is generally restricted to athletes who have achieved the official qualifying times since 28 March 2025. Athletes who fail to meet these limits may still enter by paying a penalty fee and providing valid competition results. Identical qualifying standards apply to both male and female athletes across age groups .
Final Notes
By submitting entries, clubs agree to the processing and publication of competition-related personal data, including results, start lists, photos, and video recordings. The organizer and venue assume no liability for loss or damage of personal belongings during the event .
The DKM Finswimming 2026 represents a key milestone for young finswimmers, offering a highly regulated, competitive, and development-focused environment at national level.



