Stamford at Singapore Swimming Proficiency Awards in January

Stamford Lions Swim Academy took to the water over the weekend, competing at the Singapore Swimming Proficiency Awards or as it is fondly known as, the SSPA. The event took place at Toa Payoh 50m swimming pool.

The competition is designed to recognize emerging swimmers as they conquer various levels of competitive swimming after they have progressed from ‘Swim Safer’ or ‘Learn-to-Swim programmes.

Due to COVID restrictions, the minimum entry standards were tough this year. On entering, swimmers were expected to declare their ability to make the times.

Stamford Lions Swim Academy had 9 swimmers take part this year across a range of events. Out of 24 swims there were 11 personal bests. Whilst 45.8% was a little below the expectations of the coaching staff, it was worthy to note the outdoor pool environmentthat swimmers had to contend with. On the Sunday, coaches were a little par-boiled, burnt and wet!

Nevertheless, there were proud moments to be had. At one point on Sunday the rain came down and as the warm-up pool was left empty. Our Stamford girls continued to charge through the empty lanes to complete their warm-up!

There were some outstanding performances. Hannah was competing in her first race for Stamford in Singapore. Saki walloped over 25 seconds off her 200m backstroke time for the largest PB. However, it was Katie who managed 4 PBs from 4 swims that ran away with swimmer of the meet.