The DRSA Novice gala took place on Friday 9th July. This event was open to any swimmers aged 12 and under who did not achieve a 1st, 2nd or 3rd place in any event in the club championships. The 3 categories were 8 and under who swam 25m of each stroke, 9 and 10 year olds and 11 and 12 year olds, who had to swim 50m of each stroke. The event was well turned out with a total of 40 swimmers taking part across the 3 age groups.
After a nervous start for the 8 and unders, unsure of the protocol for starting a race, the event was soon under way and the swimmers I spoke to thoroughly enjoyed taking part in what was for many their first ever gala. This was also reflected in the effort everyone put into their races, and the brilliant behaviour on poolside. I think I witnessed the bravest 25m butterfly race I have ever seen by Jasmine Coleman, who swam the whole length determined not to give up. The youngsters really got into the spirit of the gala by cheering along their friends and fellow swimmers.
A big thank you goes out to all who helped to organise and run the event, to the parents for their support and encouragement, and to all the swimmers for behaving so well. It was also really lovely to see so many of the senior swimmers helping out with the time keeping, encouraging the little ones and making sure they were alright.
The results for this gala can be found in the members section of the website
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