Ukrainian World Record Holder Andrii Govorov Joins The F-Team
We’re pumped to announce that Funky Trunks now sponsor Ukrainian World Record holder Andrii Govorov. A legend of the sport, Andrii currently sits at the summit of the men’s 50m Butterfly with his world record of 22.27 set in 2018. Despite having relocated to the United States for his latest training block and being separated from his young family during such a tumultuous time, Andrii has never been more committed and focused to swim fast and represent Ukraine on the world stage.
“The last 3 months were the toughest ones in my life,” said Govorov when discussing the war. “My will and determination to succeed on the world stage is stronger than ever to represent my country at the European and World Championships this year.”
Boasting multiple international medals across the 50m Butterfly and Freestyle events, Andrii is a stellar performer on the big stage. The 30-year-old sprint sensation first broke the 24 second barrier for the 50m Butterfly in 2009 as a 17-year-old at the European Junior Swimming Championships. At the 2013 FINA World Championships he broke the 23 second barrier for the first time, and since then has added an astonishing 26 sub-23 second swims, including his world record at Sette Colli.
The passion that Andrii brings to our F-Team is palpable with his professionalism, drive and desire to excel in the pool. With World and European Championships approaching in the coming months, Andrii is a stellar performer on the big stage and he is a big chance to add to his multiple international medals across the 50m Butterfly and Freestyle events.
Andrii will wear his APEX Predator X performance suit and Blade Swimmer race goggles, for his major competitions and, of course, plenty of colourful funkys and training gear to use throughout the season. After racing is over though, Andrii has plans away from the pool.
“Once my competitions are finished, I am planning on going back to the Ukraine and supporting my country. As soon as the war started, I set up a foundation to raise funds for organisations in need. This money will support kids, women and athletes and provide emergency humanitarian aid.”
When asked about the current status of other Ukrainian swimmers, Andrii said that “the Ukrainian National Team is currently based in Italy and might be able to take part in competitions at the Mare Nostrum Tour. Italy is very supportive towards the Ukrainian Team which is great to experience. The network is strong and we’re supporting our country every day. With regards to the support of myself and coach I am thankful to have the organizers of the Mare Nostrum Tour, as well as clubs and federations in Winterthur (Switzerland) and Frankfurt (Germany) enabling me to focus on my performance.”
Let’s go Andrii and the Ukraine Team!
