Sport
4 May, 2026
Kito siblings lead way at state champs
FAR North Queensland swimmers have delivered strong results at the Australian Age Swimming Championships on the Gold Coast, claiming national titles, multiple medals and an Australian team selection.
Fifteen swimmers represented the region across the eight-day meet, with athletes from Marlin Coast Swimming Club, Tablelands Amateur Swimming (TAS) and Cairns Stingrays Swimming Club competing in 69 events.
Brothers Sonny and Sydney Kito led the performances under the guidance of their father and Stingrays head coach Ryo Kito.
Sonny Kito dominated the 13-year-old boys’ division, winning three gold medals in the 1500m freestyle, 400m individual medley and 200m individual medley. His 200m IM swim delivered a significant personal best to secure the title.
Sydney Kito added two silver medals and earned selection in a 32-member Australian Junior Team to compete at the Junior Pan Pacific Championships in Canada later this year.
FNQ Regional Swimming Association and Cairns Stingrays president Jason Salecich said the selection was a milestone for the region.
“This is the first time in many years an FNQ swimmer has been selected in an Australian team,” he said.
“As a region, we are incredibly proud. These results show that athletes from Far North Queensland can compete and succeed at the highest level without needing to relocate to major cities.”
Paige Carey also impressed, claiming silver in the 100m freestyle after trailing at halfway and adding bronze in the 100m butterfly.
“The story behind Paige’s success is what makes this so special,” Mr Salecich said.
“She started in a regional area where access to coaching was limited and made the commitment to travel long distances to train in Cairns. Her determination, along with the support of her family, is a fantastic example for young athletes across the region.”
Across the championships, FNQ swimmers recorded 46 personal bests, 22 finals appearances and nine medals, including three gold, five silver and one bronze.
