I have been with Mid Sussex Marlins for three months, receiving guidance from Pauline and support from Maddy. When I was first told about the gala I was a bit skeptical, but I generally like to give things a try before judging them.
I didn’t really know what to expect when I turned up at this gala, but when I arrived at St Swithun’s School I saw a huge building. It reminded me of the mansion from X-Men film. The pool was in a building to the left and was a lovely 25m pool with 6 lanes, although a bit crowded around the pool due to the number of competitors and their supporters.
I took part in three events: two were 25m and the other was a 50m. One was a freestyle race, however I always to prefer to swim on my back. I usually use just my arms, but I decided to listen to my swimming teacher and used my legs too which requires more concentration. However during some races I lapsed back to my arm technique at various points.
After the heats were completed, each competitor was given a handicap time for the finals. The slowest person from the heat was allowed to start first in the final, with others following at their allotted delayed time. I remember my start times being 2 seconds, 15s and 39s. When finishing the races I didn’t always know where I had finished. Usually had to be told. I also learned that I had to stay in the water until everyone had finished.
At the end of the gala I received one bronze, one silver and one gold medal. An international CP swimmer, Grace Harvey, presented the medals.
Thanks to the all volunteers who made it possible, and a special mention to Pauline at Marlins who has helped me in the build up to the event and also was helping on the day. I really enjoyed being part of it, there was a great comradery between all the competitors with lots of encouragement and high fives. It has made me more enthused about my weekly swimming and I would do another gala if I got the chance, as I enjoyed the competitive element to it.
Christopher Manson
