District Swimming Gala

The District Swimming Gala finished with 2 thrilling finals in which Matthew C. (Backstroke) came first and Luke C. (Breaststroke) came second. This brings valued recognition to the individuals and another trophy to 3rd Stoneleigh Methodist Scout Group; but it could not have happened without a lot of work by all the others involved.

With 24 heats and 16 finals in 3 strokes and 2 kinds of relay, Mrs Carole Thomas our Group Swimming organiser, ably assisted by Akela Cub Leader Steve Lee, can be congratulated for applying the young lads different talents exactly where needed. The Cubs Freestyle 1 length was a difficult race with strong contenders; Patrick D. did well in his heat to come 4th. Similarly, Michael P. swam the Breaststroke heat with all his strength, just pipped at the last into 4th place. Josh S. came 4th in the Scout Backstroke race; his great effort and style really helped but he also ran into strong competition. Elliot D. came 3rd in his heat of Scout Freestyle but, as it is the 6 fastest times of the 2 heats that go forward to the final, he just missed the cull.

The final race in the first part of the evening was the Cub Scout 4 x 1 Freestyle Relay. They all could swim their best stroke and Daniel H., Luke C., Matthew C. and Patrick D. put in their best effort. At one point they were ahead of everyone and finished 3rd to loud cheers and congratulations.

12 Groups took part in the 2004 Epsom and Ewell Scout Swimming Gala and although many races included girls, there were generally fewer Scouts than last year and sadly some events were cancelled. Well done to all who took part; thanks again to Mrs Carole Thomas and to all the timekeepers, starters, announcers and helpers.