Red Caps Dominate the Deep End: Upper Waitaki Swimming Sports

It was a sea of red and black in Kurow recently as 25 of our dedicated students traveled south to represent our school at the Upper Waitaki Swimming Sports. The day was a fantastic showcase of sportsmanship, speed, and the undeniable results of hard work.

Our swimmers certainly didn't fly under the radar. Thanks to a generous sponsorship, our team was kitted out in vibrant red and black Swim Rua caps. These weren't just a stylish addition to their gear; they made it incredibly easy for spectators and coaches to spot our competitors as they cut through the water.

By the time the heats concluded, the "TAS effect" was unmistakable. As the program moved into the finals, nearly every race featured at least one—and often several—of those distinctive red caps lining up on the blocks.

An event like this isn't possible without a strong support crew behind the scenes. We want to extend a massive thank you to all the parents and caregivers who:

• Travelled down to Kurow to cheer from the sidelines.

• Volunteered their time to help with timing and officiating.

• Supported our swimmers through the long, humid day at the pool.

Your presence and assistance ensured the day ran smoothly and that our athletes felt encouraged every step of the way.

Individual Podium Results

Our athletes brought home an incredible haul of ribbons across all age groups:

8 & 9 Year Olds

• Bill Scarlett (8): A clean sweep! 1st in Freestyle, Breaststroke, and Backstroke.

• George Frew (9): 1st Freestyle, 2nd Breaststroke.

• Braxton McIntyre (9): 1st Backstroke, 1st Breaststroke.

• Jaimee Pooley (9): 1st Freestyle, 1st Backstroke.

• Lyla Newell (9): 3rd Freestyle, 3rd Backstroke.

• Liam K-B (9): 3rd Freestyle.

10 Year Olds

• Hunter Currall: 1st Freestyle, 2nd Backstroke, 2nd Breaststroke.

• Oliver Currall: 1st Backstroke, 2nd Freestyle.

• Summer Smith: 2nd Backstroke.

11 Year Olds

• Henry Scarlett: 1st Freestyle, 1st Backstroke, 2nd Breaststroke.

• Sebastian: 1st Breaststroke, 1st Butterfly  2nd Freestyle, 2nd Backstroke. 

• Henry Waldie: 3rd Breaststroke.2nd Butterfly 

• Alanna K-B: 3rd Breaststroke.

12 Year Olds

• Charlotte Bee: 1st Backstroke, 1st Butterfly, 2nd Freestyle, 3rd Breaststroke.

• Paige Hunter: 1st Breaststroke, 3rd Freestyle.

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A Sea of Red: TAS Swimmers Shine at North Otago Champs

The energy was electric at the Waitaki Aquatic Centre on March 11th as 19 dedicated students from TAS took to the water for the North Otago Swimming Championships. Representing the Waitaki Zone, our athletes didn't just compete—they poured every ounce of effort into the pool, proving that heart and hustle go a long way.

One thing was for certain: you couldn't miss us! Dressed in their vibrant Swim Rua Red caps, our swimmers were easy to spot as they sliced through the water, making it simple for the TAS community to track their progress from start to finish.

Punching Above Our Weight

What makes these results truly remarkable is the grit shown by our team. While many competitors train year-round, our local pool is only open for about 12 weeks of the year. To attend a regional competition and perform at this level is a massive testament to the raw talent and determination of these students.

Podium Finishes and Top Performers

The depth of talent was on full display, with a huge portion of our squad—Charlotte, Theo, Oliver, George, Ryder, Liam, Braxton, Lyla, Jaimee, Bill, Summer, Henry W, Izzy, Hunter, Henry S and Seb —all securing Top 10 finishes in their respective strokes.

Special congratulations go to our individual medalists:

• Hunter 1st Freestyle, 2nd Backstroke, 3rd Breaststroke
• Oliver 1st Freestyle 
• Seb I 1st Breaststroke, 2nd Butterfly, 3rd Freestyle
• Jaimee 2nd Freestyle 
• Bill 1st Breaststroke, 2nd Freestyle
• Henry s 1st Freestyle, 2nd Backstroke, 3rd Breaststroke

Relay Success

The strength of the Waitaki Zone was further cemented during the relay events. Six of our TAS stars—Henry S, Seb, Paige, Charlotte, Hunter, and Oliver—featured across three different relay teams, showcasing incredible teamwork and speed under pressure.

A Huge Thank You

A massive shout-out goes to our incredible parents! You were officially the loudest cheer squad on the sidelines, providing the boost our swimmers needed to reach the wall. Your support makes these opportunities possible.

Congratulations to all 19 representatives for doing TAS and the Waitaki Zone proud!