Schools battle it out at Zululand swimming gala
Young swimmers from six schools compete in a vibrant Zululand swimming gala in Vryheid.
Vryheid Swimming Club hosted the annual Zululand School Swimming Gala on Saturday.
The Vryheid High School pool was alive with excitement and competitive spirit as the gala brought together young talent from across the district.
Strong participation from six schools
There were participants from six schools, namely Lucas Meyer Laerskool, Michaelis Private School, Nardini Primary School, Nuwe Republiek School (NRS), Pionier Hoërskool and Pongola Akademie Skool.
Young swimmers take to the water
128 swimmers took to the water, with 62 boys and 66 girls displaying their skills, determination and months of dedicated training. The day offered a vibrant atmosphere full of fun for spectators, while providing the young athletes with a valuable opportunity to test their strength against the best in the district.
Focus on growth and development
Vryheid Swimming Club’s primary aim for the gala was clear: To give swimmers a platform to grow, develop a genuine love for the sport, master swim disciplines, build personal endurance, and reap the rewards of hard work and effort.
Community support plays key role
A large-scale event like this relies heavily on community support, and the organisers expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors and contributors who made it possible. Special thanks to all the sponsors.
Officials ensure smooth running
The gala also depended on the tireless efforts of dedicated officials, including 21 timekeepers, four stroke judges, two turn judges, a referee, starter, clerk of the course administrator, announcer, and team managers from each school. Their willingness to volunteer time and expertise ensured the smooth running of the competition.
Spectators add to the atmosphere
Spectators played a key role too, offering encouragement and inspiration that the swimmers cherish.
Top performers recognised
The swimmers’ hard work throughout the season shone through, with top performers earning well-deserved recognition in the individual point scores.
Top 3 girls’ point scorers:
Kaylie van der Linde (Michaelis Private School) – 137 points;
Zandri Neethling (Pongola Akademie Laerskool) – 127 points;
Izelda Meyer (Lucas Meyer Laerskool) – 118 points.
Top 3 boys’ point scorers:
Estiaan Weitz (Lucas Meyer Laerskool) – 146 points;
Petrus Eybers (Lucas Meyer Laerskool) – 137 points;
Zak Brecher (Pongola Akademie Laerskool) – 117 points.
Celebration of sport and community
The Zululand School Swimming Gala once again proved to be a celebration of talent, community spirit and the pure joy of swimming.
The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.
