Hartlepool youngsters make a splash at swimming gala

Almost 200 children from 17 primary schools competed in the Primary School Competitive Gala 2016 over two days at Mill House Leisure Centre.

Organised by Hartlepool Council’s Sport and Recreation Service, the event was very competitive and exciting, with lots of races proving to be very close affairs.

Learn to Swim Co-ordinator Paul Rayner said: “During the course of the gala, the lead changed many times right up to the final event.

“On Day Two, we even had to hold a “swim-off” for the title of Best Boys Team on the day following a tie between Hart Primary School and St Aidan’s C of E Primary School. Hart eventually won by the smallest of margins.

“At the end of the two-day event, the team from St Aidan’s C of E Primary School was crowned overall gala winner by scoring the most points – 105.

“I’d like to congratulate all of the children on their superb efforts and I am grateful to the schools for their continued support.

“The event also attracted a large number of spectators who provided the children with lots of encouragement and made the day all the more enjoyable.”

Day one of the gala was for larger schools while day two was contested by smaller schools including Barnard Grove Primary, Eldon Grove Primary, Fens Primary, and Golden Flatts Primary.

Pupils competed in a series of races, including boys and girls front crawl, boys and girls breaststroke, boys and girls freestyle relay and team cannon relay.