CHILD Swim Gala makes a splash

A swimming group for children with disabilities and their families took over Thornaby Pool for their first ever action-packed swimming gala in March 2008.

The inclusive gala, organised though Tees Valley Sport with the support of Stockton Sports Development, Tees Active Ltd and Thornaby Swimming Club, provided a new and exciting activity for the disabled swimmers and their families who swim regularly on a Sunday morning. 

All of the eighteen swimmers, aged between two and twenty, showed off a range of swimming skills in a mix of individual and relay races over 10m and 25m. Some of the major successes on the day included Thomas, who swum 25m for the first time, Matthew performing a great racing dive, Jake and James showing off their bilateral breathing on the front crawl, Rebecca demonstrating a superb backstroke and Orlagh, the newest member of the group swimming independently in her races.

With certificates, medals and goody bags been given out throughout the day it proved to be a resounding success for the organisers. Sue Clarke, the group’s instructor, was delighted with their efforts; “the swimmers were all brilliant”. 

Jane Roche, Swimming Development Officer for Tees Valley Sport, supported this view;

“This group acts as a great opportunity for children with disabilities to take part in a more structured family activity. It’s clear that the children have not only improved their swimming ability but also gained confidence as well as having a really fun time. This group is an ideal starting point for children to progress in swimming.”  

The group are looking for more swimmers to join them and would welcome new swimmers of all ages. The group meet every Sunday at Thornaby Pool for fun activities aimed at improving confidence and skills in the water. All the children work towards proficiency badges along the way.

To find out more about the group, please contact; Sue Clarke on 01642 713112 or Sue Aston on 01642 888379.