From March 17–20, YCIS Chongqing had the pleasure of sending the first swimming team to a competitive swimming event. The event was co-hosted by Suzhou Singapore International School (SSIS) and Dulwich College Suzhou (DCSZ) in Suzhou and was held across two days. A total of 10 students were sent to the event, competing in three, four and some five events across the two days.

Day 1 of the ACAMIS swimming meeting went by without any glitches for the YCIS swimming team. Most students only had one event to compete in throughout the day, but some two and three (400m freestyle, 100m backstroke and 50m freestyle), and they made the most of this opportunity. The 12 years and younger age group students were sent off to the Suzhou Singapore International School, while the 13 years and older were sent off to the Dulwich College Suzhou. Both campuses were well prepared for such a big event and were ready for all 485 eager swimmers.

As this was completely new to most of our YCIS students, the uncontrollable nerves were expected, as well as for those of the coaches. In practice, belly flops, tired students and wild tumbles were a common occurrence, but, on Day 1, the YCIS students displayed their wings as proud as a peacock. They all demonstrated that they improved their skills by a huge degree. Personal records were broken and fears were overcome.

Day 2 of the event once again proved to be a fruitful one for the YCIS Chongqing team, and personal bests was the theme of the day. Day 2 saw swimmers take part in the 200m Individual Medley, 100m Freestyle and the 100m Breaststroke events. The amazing YCIS Chongqing swimmers exited the pool after Day 2 feeling exhausted, but having achieved a fantastic set of results. Despite not finishing on the podium, all swimmers swam personal best times, which is something that they can be extremely proud of.

As the coaches we are extremely proud of our students. For most, this was their first ever swimming meet, making these even more excellent results. Hard work, commitment to training and a never-say-die attitude were the reason these results were possible.

It can definitely be said that YCIS Chongqing’s first trip to a swimming event was a successful one and that many more will follow in the years to come.