Sultan Kigab

Abd el-Magid Sultan Kigab, born in 1955, was a remarkable Sudanese-Canadian marathon swimmer and a notable figure in Sudanese politics. After pursuing a degree in Law at Cairo University, specifically at its Khartoum branch, Kigab transitioned into a successful swimming career that would see him represent Sudan on international stages.

Throughout his athletic journey, Kigab participated in prestigious events such as the Maratona del Golfo Capri-Napoli in Italy, the Latakia International Swimming Race in Syria, and the Canadian World Championships. His dedication to the sport culminated in a significant victory in 1974 when he won Sudan's Jabal Awliya race, recognized as one of the longest swimming races in the world. His impressive performances earned him numerous medals and accolades.

In addition to his competitive achievements, Kigab also took on the role of a coach, sharing his expertise in swimming in both Canada and Saudi Arabia. His influence extended beyond the pool as he ventured into politics, running for the presidency of Sudan in 1996, where he finished second to Omar al-Bashir. Known for his charismatic personality, Kigab was often described as a 'showman,' captivating audiences both in and out of the water.