School Record Broken at IAPS Swimming Qualifiers

On the 23rd of February, 23 of our Prep School swimmers in Years 5 to 8 travelled to St Mary’s in Calne to take part in one of the qualifying rounds for the IAPS swimming tournament. This was one of many events across the country that determine the 20 fastest swimmers in each event that will then progress to the finals at the London Aquatics Centre in June. 

Whilst the competitive environment was a completely new experience for some, all felt . Across the afternoon, swimmers raced in a range of events, including individual swims for back crawl, breaststroke, butterfly and freestyle, as well as the medley and freestyle relay in the under 10, under 11, under 12 and under 13 age groups. In the under 10 category, Alice, Beth, Rosabella, Bailey and Silas swam amazingly as individuals, with the girls also making up the relay team. Ethan, Mani, Jacob, Zac, George, Seren, Katherine, Immy and Lullah made up the under 11 squad while Avie, Caylem, Isabella and Faye were our under 12. Representing Monkton in the under 13 age group were Campbell, Harrison, Finn, Walter and Jack. 

All of the competitors swam incredibly, putting aside their nerves for a few moments to show everyone the hard work that they have been putting in both at school and during club training sessions. Many 1st places were achieved, personal bests were beaten and even a school record was broken by Rosabella- 25m butterfly in 16.49s! 

Alongside the incredible discipline and effort shown in the pool, our swimmers displayed the school’s values in abundance, notably in their reassuring and helping prepare each other, cheering each other on (and other schools too), and thanking the lifeguards and school staff on the way out. 

A memorable afternoon was had by all, and the staff were incredibly proud to be a part of Team Monkton. Now we just have to wait until they announce which swimmers have qualified for the finals…watch this space!