On Wednesday, our Years 7 & 8 swim squad travelled to Horsham Pavilions in the Park to compete in the ESSA Secondary Team Relays national qualifier. With a huge number of schools entering throughout the county this year, this qualifier had to be split over two dates.
Girls’ outstanding performance – First up was the girls’ 4×50 metres freestyle relay. The girls swam an impressive race, finishing second in their heat and claiming second place overall in the county out of 21 schools. Unlike the primary qualifiers, the secondary competitions do not have regional qualifiers. We now need to wait for all the south-east qualifiers to complete – the top two qualifying times in the south-east will progress to the final at Birmingham Sandwell on 15 November. The wait will be nerve-wracking, but the girls have put themselves in a strong position to qualify!
Next up, the girls’ 4×50 metres medley relay. Yet again, they dug deep and finished third in their heat. Unfortunately, we were disqualified in this event due to an illegal turn. However, the girls’ strong swim showed they have the speed and skill to compete at the highest level—a valuable learning experience that will only make them stronger for future competitions and the IAPS qualifier’s in the new year!
Boys’ strong showing – The same boys team who made it to the IAPS national final for the medley relay last year were back in force, with a few minor position and stroke choice alterations. The nerves were clearly on display.
First up –Â the 4×50 metres freestyle relay, where the boys secured a very admirable 5th in their heat and 11th overall out of 17 schools. Then came the 4×50 metres medley relay, where the boys secured fourth in their heat and 11th overall out of 17 schools. The boys were disqualified in this event last year and came out of this one with their heads held high, also securing a new PB!
Well done to all our swimmers for representing Windlesham House with such determination and skill.
01903 874700
whsoffice@windlesham.com
