Mermaids for Inclusion: Fostering Social Integration and Gender Equality Through Finswimming

The upcoming mid-term event of the “Mermaids for Inclusion” project, co-funded by the European Union through Erasmus+, is set to take place on November 17, 2024, at the Sarajevo Olympic Pool in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This event aims to not only promote finswimming but also to emphasize the importance of inclusivity and gender equality in sports, particularly through the lens of social integration. Hosted by BRAVO and their partners, this competition showcases how sports can be a catalyst for broader social change, bringing together athletes from diverse backgrounds for a day of exciting finswimming events and meaningful discussions.

Event Overview

The program is split into a series of competitive finswimming races and open discussions aimed at highlighting the key values of the “Mermaids for Inclusion” project. This initiative focuses on using sport as a tool for promoting social inclusion, equal opportunities, and empowering underrepresented groups, particularly women.

Morning Session (09:50 – 11:30)

The morning events kick off with the arrival and registration of participants at 8:30 AM, followed by a briefing for judges and an introduction to finswimming rules for newcomers. This is a welcoming start for those who may be participating in a competitive event for the first time, ensuring a smooth entry into the sport.

After a warm-up session from 9:00 to 9:45 AM, the event will officially begin with a welcome speech by the project leaders. Additionally, there will be a keynote address emphasizing the role of sports in promoting social integration and gender equality. The morning competition then proceeds with several races, including:

• 100 m bifins (men/women – Senior Junior)
• 50 m monofin surface finswimming (women/men – Senior Junior)
• 200 m bifins (men/women – Senior Junior)
• 4 x 100 m surface finswimming mixed relay (Senior)

The focus on both male and female athletes across junior and senior categories reflects the project’s core mission of inclusion. The mixed-gender relay also underlines gender equality, further encouraging the idea that men and women can compete together in a spirit of fairness and unity.

Presentations and Demonstrations (11:30 – 13:30)

After the morning’s competitive events, the schedule features presentations related to the “Mermaids for Inclusion” project, providing insights into how sports can drive social change. These presentations include:

• An overview of the Mermaids for Inclusion project’s objectives and achievements.
• An open talk discussing upcoming projects and potential partnerships aimed at expanding the project’s impact.

This is a key part of the event that not only celebrates finswimming but also invites dialogue on broader societal issues, including how sports organizations can collaborate to create more inclusive environments.

Afternoon Session (13:30 – 15:10)

The afternoon races continue with more competitive events:

• 4 x 100 m bifins mixed relay (Senior)
• 50 m apnea (women/men – Senior Junior)
• 50 m bifins (women/men – Senior Junior)
• 100 m monofin finswimming (women/men – Senior Junior)
• 400 m bifins (women/men – Senior Junior)

Following the competitions, there will be a prize-giving ceremony where medals will be awarded to the top three competitors in each discipline and category. The day will conclude with a debriefing for coaches and team leaders, along with closing remarks and announcements of future events.

Venue and Eligibility

The competition will be held at the Otoka Pools in Sarajevo, which features a 50 x 25-meter pool with eight competition lanes. This facility is equipped with electronic timing devices, ensuring accurate race results for all participants.

The event is open to athletes from clubs that are members of federations affiliated with the World Underwater Federation (CMAS) or who are partners in the “Mermaids for Inclusion” project. All competitors must provide proof of a valid sports medical license issued within the last six months and must complete registration by November 9th, 2024.

Registration and Participation

Participants can register through email or online platforms provided by the organizers. The registration fee is €10 per competitor, although athletes from partner organizations in the “Mermaids for Inclusion” project are exempt from this fee. Notably, the competition is open to male and female athletes in both junior and senior categories. There are no restrictions on the number of events an individual athlete can compete in, allowing for maximum participation.

Promoting Inclusivity and Gender Equality

The “Mermaids for Inclusion” project emphasizes the importance of mixed-gender events as a way to promote gender equality within sports. The mixed relay races, where teams consist of two men and two women, symbolize the project’s mission of providing equal opportunities for all participants, regardless of gender.

This inclusivity extends to the event’s open discussions, which will address the relevance of finswimming as part of an integrated water sport club. Athletes, coaches, and attendees are encouraged to participate in these discussions, contributing to the ongoing dialogue around inclusivity in sports.

Safety and Rules

In line with CMAS regulations, all equipment used during the competition must comply with safety standards. Lifeguards and first aid stations will be on standby throughout the event to ensure the safety of all participants. Additionally, athletes are required to sign a statement of responsibility before participating, confirming that they are competing at their own risk.

Conclusion

The mid-term event of the “Mermaids for Inclusion” project is more than just a finswimming competition. It is a celebration of sport’s power to bring people together, promote inclusivity, and advance gender equality. With its blend of competitive events and meaningful discussions, this event offers a platform for athletes to not only showcase their skills but also contribute to a broader social movement aimed at making sports accessible and equitable for all.