Chad-less Swimming SA squad heads for Japan for educational World Champs as Olympics loom

Swimming South Africa's young group headed to the World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka with education and Olympic qualification in mind as butterfly star Chad le Clos opted to skip the meet with the Olympics in mind.

Six of the 11 swimmers were present at Tuesday's departure at the OR Tambo International airport. The 20th edition of the World Championships looks like it may have even slimmer pickings compared to last year in Hungary as Olympic preparation becomes paramount. 

Tatjana Schoenmaker, who landed in Japan on Tuesday, stands as the major medal hope alongside Lara van Niekerk as the likes of Aimee Canny, Emma Chelius, Milla Drakopoulos, Trinity Hearne, Michael Houlie, Clayton Jimmie, Rebecca Meder, Righardt Muller and Roland Schoeman hold SA's rather thin medalling hopes.