Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Rainbow Swimming Scheme Gala 2016 was held at Annan Pool on Saturday 28th November. Once again, this annual event, which sees participants of the Rainbow Swimming Scheme from across the region come together to compete in a relaxed, friendly and enjoyable environment, was a great success. A total of 66 swimmers, the majority of which were experiencing swimming competition for the first time, gave their all and were a credit to each of the swimming pool facilities they were representing.
This year, each of the facility teams competed for two team trophies. Winners of the overall Top Team were The FUN pool who were presented with the “Sam Leask Memorial Trophy”. Sam learnt to swim in the Rainbow Swimming Lesson programme and progressed to the highest Gold award before suddenly becoming ill in 2012. Sam sadly passed away only three months later in Yorkhill Children’s Hospital. The event was so keenly competed in a wonderful spirit by so many young swimmers from across Dumfries and Galloway.
The FUN Pool also came out on top to win the “ Team Sportsmanship Trophy” presented to the team who showed the greatest amount of enthusiasm and effort but who did so in the spirit of fair play and respect for their fellow swimmers, coaches and officials. This trophy was presented in the memory of Brian Wilgos who was the regions first Swimming Development Officer.
Councillor David McKie, Vice Chair of Children, Young People and Life Long Learning Committee attended and presented the medals and trophies to the winners. He said: ‘I would like to congratulate all the swimmers for supporting and participating in the event, I found it most enjoyable. The spread of Medal Winners helped to show that our Coaches and Volunteers are doing an excellent job across the region. The youngsters certainly seemed to enjoy themselves.
Also, a huge thank you to all the staff at Annan to all the volunteers for their help and support in making sure that this event was once again a great success. Well done to all concerned.’
