NSW Announce 2026 Japan Open Touring Team

Swimming NSW is pleased to announce the 14 swimmers selected to represent New South Wales at the 2026 Japan Open in Tokyo, Japan. Held at Tokyo Aquatics Centre, the competition will provide the team with the opportunity to race against some of Japan’s leading swimmers and gain valuable international experience from 4-6 December including an official practice day will be held on 3 December ahead of racing.

The touring team includes swimmers from across the state, with athletes selected from Carlile, Cranbrook, University of Canberra Swim Club, SOPAC, Knox Pymble and Manly. They will have the opportunity to compete in a world-class international environment and gain valuable experience outside their usual domestic racing schedule.

Head Coach Chris Nesbit said the competition would provide an important opportunity for the swimmers and staff to gain international experience as they continue their preparations towards Los Angeles 2028.

“NSW swimmers will once again have the opportunity to compete at the Japan Open competition in Tokyo. The competition will provide swimmers and staff much-needed international experience outside of their usual domestic environments.

This competition is particularly challenging for butterfly, breaststroke and individual medley swimmers, as Japan traditionally produces multiple world-class performers in these events.

With the LA Olympics 20 months away, the group will be able to test their resolve with travel and competition. Some of the swimmers will use the opportunity to combine three quality competitions – Japan, Queensland State Championships followed by the NSW Championships – all within a three-week period.

This sort of competition exposure will enhance the swimmers’ and staff’s ability and build confidence on the road to LA.”

Congratulations to all New South Wales Institue of Sport (NSWIS) swimmers, coaches and staff selected to represent NSW in Tokyo. We wish the entire team every success as they take on this exciting international opportunity.

Athletes:

• Jess Cole
• Kayla Hardy
• Ollie Moclair
• Kira Long
• Joseph Hamson

Staff:

• Sarah Moseley (Sport Science)
• David Pease (Sport Science)

Photo: Arvind’s Photography