Junior Schools Swimming Gala
The 23rd annual junior schools swimming gala at Eastbourne College went off with the usual bonhomie and healthy competitiveness last week, as the College welcomed 81 swimmers from nine local schools to the Winn building swimming pool.
Regular participants Polegate, Roedean Moira House, St Andrew’s Prep, St John’s Meads and St Thomas a Becket, were joined by four new schools this year: Cavendish, Langney, Parklands and West Rise.
With over 100 supporters in the gallery overlooking the pool, the atmosphere was electric as boys and girls competed in a total of 24 heats over the backstroke, breastroke, butterfly, freestyle and relay disciplines.
Cavendish, Polegate, St Thomas a Becket, Roedean Moira House, St Andrew’s Prep and West Rise all gained podium places with Polegate winning the Headmaster’s Cup for most improved team.
The annual junior swimming gala could not be run without the support and expertise of certain key staff and the College wishes to thank all of those involved in organising and running the event. In particular, the College wishes to thank the Eastbourne Swimming Club officials, led by Chris and Mel Hobbs, who kindly volunteered themselves, as they do every year, giving up their evening to ensure a fun and orderly gala for all.
Since the beginning of the gala back in 1997, some 1,300 local pupils and countless parents and staff have enjoyed this event, which is always conducted in the best of spirits.
