Children from Haddon Dene Preparatory School had a ‘splashing’ time at the Thanet Primary Gala, held last weekend at Hartsdown Leisure Centre.
The competition was fierce with 16 other schools vying for the top spot. Despite being one of the smallest schools in the competition, Haddon Dene came away as winners of the Year 3 & 4 category and fourth place overall combined with Years 5 & 6.
During the morning session of the gala, the younger children won a cup in celebration of their efforts and an incredible 13 medals including 3 golds, 4 silvers and 2 bronze medals. In the afternoon, the older children battled it out coming away with 6 medals including 1 gold, 1 silver and a bronze. Their outstanding achievement gained 76 points overall.
Thirty-four children from years 2-6 took part and each one contributed to the overall point score, showing true swimming technique and form.
Special mention was made of:
Giovanna Piper silver in the 100 IM, Finlay Smith 4th in the 100 IM, Henry Goodgame silver in the 25m freestyle, Melody Sagir Gold in the 25m backstroke, Luka Ilvonen Gold in the 25m backstroke, George Kemp silver in the 25m breaststroke, Ava Harris 4th in the 25m butterfly, Fin Ilvonen Gold in the 25m butterfly, Lewis Russell 5th 25m freestyle, Noah Bull 1st 25m backstroke, Rebecca Kemp 4th 25m breaststroke, William Smith silver 25m breaststroke and Isaac Pheils bronze in the 25m butterfly.
Headmistress Joanne Parpworth said: ‘Swimming forms an integral part of our sporting curriculum. The Thanet Primary gala is one of the most anticipated sporting events in our calendar. It is just so thrilling to see all of the children compete against other amazing swimmers. We may be a small school but we have an amazing group of talented children. We definitely need to buy a bigger trophy cabinet!’