LBFTA Supports Inaugural Komodo Ocean Swim 2026, Strengthening Sports Tourism and Inclusive Tourism in Labuan Bajo

Labuan Bajo, April 26, 2026 – Badan Pelaksana Otorita Labuan Bajo Flores (BPOLBF) expressed its support for the successful implementation of Komodo Ocean Swim 2026, an international open water swimming competition organized by Bali Sports Foundation (BSF) Asia, held at Seraya Kecil Island, Labuan Bajo, on Sunday (26/4).

The event marked the first-ever Komodo Ocean Swim held in Labuan Bajo, serving as an expansion of the long-running Bali Ocean Swim, which has successfully hosted 16 editions, with the latest event held in 2025. Organizers hope Komodo Ocean Swim can evolve into an annual sports tourism event in Labuan Bajo.

Beyond being a sporting competition, the event also carried a meaningful social mission. All proceeds collected from participant registration fees will be allocated to support sports development programs for persons with disabilities in Bali and Eastern Indonesia.

Founded in 2009 by Rodney Holt, Bali Sports Foundation (BSF) Asia is a Bali-based non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with disabilities through sports initiatives.

A total of 36 participants from various countries—including the United States, Australia, Spain, Malaysia, and Indonesia—joined the inaugural competition.

The race officially began at 08:00 AM WITA with the 10-kilometer open category, featuring two participants from California and Australia. Athletes swam through a challenging route surrounding two small islands—Anita Island and Hatamin Island.

The 1.2-kilometer race began at 09:30 AM WITA, featuring multiple divisions including junior, adult, and masters categories.

Winners of Komodo Ocean Swim 2026

Junior Female Category (1.2 KM)
1st Place: Healdegardiz Gerejati Banabera
2nd Place: Michelle Leong

Junior Male Category (1.2 KM)
1st Place: Michael Greicgo Elsons Sukantio
2nd Place: Bayu Priambodo

Adult Male Category (1.2 KM)
1st Place: Lerianus Parpurna
2nd Place: Louis
3rd Place: Damiand Hendra Gunawan

Masters Category (1.2 KM)
1st Place: Emitha Taihutu
2nd Place: Christian Puentes

Open Category (10 KM)
1st Place: Aaron Trenfield
2nd Place: Cindy Song

Founder of Bali Sports Foundation Asia, Rodney Holt, emphasized that the event was designed to strengthen Labuan Bajo’s sports tourism ecosystem while also generating broader tourism exposure.

“Komodo Ocean Swim is designed to support sports tourism development while promoting Labuan Bajo as a world-class tourism destination. We hope this event receives even greater attention next year and attracts more participants who can also become future visitors to Labuan Bajo,” said Rodney Holt.

Participant Christian Puentes, who competed in the Masters category, also shared his experience swimming in Labuan Bajo’s waters.

“Seraya Island has extraordinary coral reefs and beautiful marine scenery. The waters are safe for swimming, and I truly hope this event continues to grow and be held regularly in Labuan Bajo,” said Christian.

The event also highlighted inclusivity in sports through the participation of Richard Rahit, a para-rugby athlete and coach from Ruteng, who shared his vision to introduce rugby to persons with disabilities in Labuan Bajo and greater Flores.

According to Richard, sports can become a platform for individuals with disabilities to showcase their hidden talents and prove that equal opportunities should be available to everyone.

Meanwhile, Acting President Director of BPOLBF, Andhy MT Marpaung, welcomed the event as a positive step in diversifying tourism products in Labuan Bajo beyond marine tourism.

“Labuan Bajo continues to grow as a destination with diverse tourism potential—not only nature-based tourism but also sports tourism that can attract quality visitors. We appreciate Bali Sports Foundation for initiating Komodo Ocean Swim and integrating social values of inclusivity into this event. We hope this becomes an annual international event that strengthens Labuan Bajo’s global tourism appeal,” said Andhy.

Through collaborative initiatives like Komodo Ocean Swim, BPOLBF remains committed to supporting innovative tourism programs that create economic opportunities, encourage inclusivity, and position Labuan Bajo as a world-class destination that offers more than just scenic beauty.

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Engel Vione
IT Support Specialist & Public Communication Officer
Labuan Bajo Flores Tourism Authority
Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia