Crawford learners make waves at their interhouse gala

Crawford International Lonehill held its inter-house gala, which was a triumph.

For the senior events, Holly Niven and Ethan Kretzmar came out tops with Maya Phasha, Kgosi Mocoenyane and Finley Niven bringing it home for the juniors.

“These talented swimmers have continued to draw amazement from the audience,” said client experience officer and receptionist Louise Clarke Mathers.

During the last strokes of some of the races it was anyone’s race.

“A dedicated team of timekeepers stood poised with their stopwatches at one end of the pool, while house supporters, teams, and parents cheered enthusiastically from the sides. There were no false starts or disqualifications.”

All four individual swimming strokes were on display. The races generated huge excitement of speed and lots of noise was evident as every position and point became vital towards the overall scores.

“In the end, there could only be one winner and it was Cameron House who were declared the swimming champions for 2024.

They narrowly pipped Barrett House to the title with a strong finish towards the end of the gala. “Every house put in great effort and the competition was close throughout the many races,” said Clarke-Mathers.

Holly said she is inspired by South African swimmer Tatjana Shoenmaker. She started streamlining her swimming skills in Grade 5 and this has certainly pushed her and improved her timing.

Kretzmar said, “My favourite stroke is butterfly because I find that it comes naturally to me, even though many people find it difficult.”

Finley said, “I like swimming in the pool but also love swimming in the sea and bodysurfing in the waves. The gala certainly made waves.”

Maya said she enjoys the excitement of galas and having classmates cheer her on. Her favourite stroke is freestyle.

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