SWIMMERS and coaches from the Israel national team lauded the New Clark City Aquatics Center, citing world-class facilities and exceptional swimming pools that are instrumental in their preparation for the Tokyo Olympics.
The 17-member team from the Israel Swimming Association began their preparations for the Olympics using facilities at the internationally-certified pool last Saturday.
This is the first time that the Aquatics Center is hosting an event since the outbreak of the Covid-19 virus in the country and the enforcement of community lockdowns.
“I travelled all around the world and saw thousands of aquatic complexes. New Clark City’s facility is among the best in the world!” said David Marsh, former US Olympic swimming coach and professional adviser of the Israeli team.
Swimmers from the Israeli team were also impressed with the world-class aquatics center in Capas, Tarlac.
“It’s a really nice pool with really nice surrounding views. And the bright color of the pool makes it look even better. More importantly, I like how the pool is really fast. Thank you for having us here!” said Andrea Murez, a 29-year-old who will compete in the 100-meter freestyle in Tokyo.
BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Vince Dizon, also the deputy chief implementer of the country’s pandemic response, said the event will not only boost the Filipinos’ confidence in New Clark City’s world-class facilities, but also “showcase the capability of the country to recover from the pandemic.”
“We are thrilled yet humbled at the same time to host our friends from Israel in New Clark City’s first-ever sports bubble,” Dizon said. “Israel is one of the leading countries in the world for Covid-19 vaccination and response.”
Nir Balzam, Chargé d’Affaires of the Israel Embassy in the Philippines, joined Dizon in the visit.
“We’d like to extend our thanks to Secretary Vince, the BCDA and the Philippine government for being a true friend of Israel and also for hosting our swimmers,” Balzam said. “Having them here, training in this bubble setting where they can train freely, get acclimated to the region and the time zone, we really appreciate it.”