On Saturday 10th April, Columba College had 13 swimmers compete in the Otago champs held at Moana Pool. They were among hundreds of swimmers representing their schools from all around Otago.

With a total of 51 individual entries and 3 relay team entries, Columba was set to come away with some outstanding results.

Sophie Wellington swam strongly and managed to gain PBs in all her individual races. She also placed 2nd in the 50m Freestyle and Backstroke finals which was an outstanding individual effort.

Ailie Somerville showed some pace in her breaststroke final placing 3rd, along with a 5th place in her 50m freestyle final. Gwendolyn Somerville also showed she could keep up with her sisters success and picked herself up a 7th place in the 50m freestyle final.

The Junior Mixed 200m Freestyle Relay team competed strongly and placed an outstanding 3rd place. The team consisted of Sophie Wellington, Emily North, Meábh Russell and Gwendolyn Somerville.

Beth Elder, Olivia Brown, Rhianjali Giles and Zoe Mackenzie competed in the year 7&8 mixed medley and 200m Freestyle team relay race. All girls gave it all they had for their team and managed to gain an impressive 5th place in the 200m Freestyle and 7th place in the medley relay.

Once the students had finished their race, they were quick to get back to the stands to cheer on their fellow team mates, providing encouragement and an awesome atmosphere.

The Columba College Swimmers who attended are:

Olivia Brown, Peter Choi, Beth Elder, Rhianjali Giles, Jemima Hortop-Blair, Lydia Hortop-Bliar, Zoe Mackenzie, Emily North, Mia North, Meábh Russell, Ailie Somerville, Gwendolyn Somerville, Sophie Wellington

A MASSIVE thank you to Pene Knowles who helped manage the students, getting them to the correct event, heat and lane in time. Another thank you to all parents who came and supported the students, and congratulations to all those who represented Columba. You did yourselves, the school and your families proud!

Please click here for full results.