At least 47 beneficiaries of the San Carlos City swimming program competed in the Novice Swim Fest at the city’s People’s Park Lap Pool on July 18.
The event, facilitated by the San Carlos Swimming Club “The Marlins” under the supervision of coach Tomas Katalbas, was part of the celebration of the city’s 62nd Charter Day anniversary.
Participating boys and girls aged 5 to 16 years competed in five different events for three swimming strokes – butterfly, backstroke and breaststroke.
Katalbas said the competition is aimed at exposing aspiring swimmers who have been learning swimming for three months now, enhancing their skills, as well as preparing them for incoming professional competitions.
He added that more than half of the swimmers showed the potential to excel in any swimming competitions and that the swim fest gave them the opportunity to select swimmers who can be part of “The Marlins” to further develop their skills.
Moreover, Denise Correa, one of the successful members of The Marlins swimming team who has been competing in the various tournaments, shared how the sport changed her life at the age of nine and that the sport should be coupled with great team which can back you up and effort to become better.
Correa also said dedication, perseverance, self-discipline and enjoyment are important factors in achieving one’s dream of winning.
Winners received medals while competitors with multiple wins got trophies.
Also present during the event were Councilors Benito Gustilo Jr. and Victoriana Cabili; and Sports Office OIC Jesus Facundo Combate Jr.; and coach Dennis Peñalosa of the City Sports Office.*