King's Worcester
1 February
Swimmers Rise to the Challenge at Bromsgrove Relays
Sixteen swimmers from Years 8–12 made the short journey to Bromsgrove School to compete in the annual Bromsgrove Invitational Relays Gala.
This popular and highly competitive event attracts strong teams from across the Midlands, and with the continued growth of swimming at King’s, the school was once again able to field a full complement of relay teams in each category: U15 girls, U15 boys, U18 girls and U18 boys.
With several Sixth Form swimmers unavailable due to mock A level examinations, the gala also presented a fantastic opportunity for some of King’s other talented swimmers to represent the Senior Boys’ and Girls’ teams. Competing against schools including King Edwards, Cheltenham College, Warwick School, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Alcester Grammar, Bedford Girls’ School and Edgbaston High School, the King’s pupils knew they would have to be at their very best to secure podium finishes – and they rose to the challenge brilliantly.
The U15 Girls’ team, comprising Amelia B, Fliss T, Mia G and Helena C, swam superbly to qualify for both A finals, finishing in an impressive fourth place in both the 4 × 50m Freestyle and Medley relays.
Matching their success, the U15 Boys’ team of Harry C, Isaac P, Joe O’L and Teddy C also secured places in both A finals, delivering strong performances to finish fourth in both events.
The U18 Girls’ team – Catherine H, Hattie T, Isabella W and Sophie E – produced our standout results of the day. After confidently securing their places in both A finals, they went on to claim a place in the 4 × 50m Freestyle relay and third place in the 4 × 50m Medley relay, showcasing exceptional teamwork and determination.
With Aled L, Ben G and Harry C all unavailable, the U18 Boys’ team faced a tougher challenge. However, led by experienced U18 team member Dylan L, the squad of Alex M, John E and Oli S demonstrated great composure and resilience. They won the B final of the 4 × 50m Freestyle relay and took second place in the B final of the Medley relay – two strong results in a highly competitive field.
Simply qualifying for an A final at this event is a great achievement, so all of the King’s pupils should be proud of their performances. A special mention must also go to Year 8 pupils Helena C and Harry C, who ‘swam up’ to support the U18 Senior teams – a real testament to their talent and commitment.
Well done and thank you to all the swimmers who represented King’s with such skill, effort and enthusiasm.