Sports
US and Aussie Swimmers MakeLocal Splash
The world-class swimmersfrom Australia and the United States recently all proved to begold medal performers in their involvement in the activities scheduledby the Cayman Islands Amateur Swimming Association.
Engagingly personable and down-to-earth in their approach to residents- swimmers, supporters and everyone else they met, rubbing elbowswith these individuals surely made all the local swimmers, particularlythe younger competitors, feel that each and every one could reachthe same heights that the visitors have achieved.
Long hours at the pool for coaching, patient presentation of medalsat competitions, media appearances, motivational speeches to severalgroups - all were conducted with great enthusiasm.
Some of the highlights included the participation of Ryan Mitchelland Daniel Kowalski with awards at the Bank of Butterfield Triathlon;the speech by Jenny Thompson in which she outlined her careerand her philosophy of the Four C's -- commitment, consistency,courage and confidence.
The fundraising dinner and auction at the Hyatt provided financialbenefit and hilarity during the bidding for items available, includingapparel, photos, posters, accommodation and air trips.
An announcement during the evening stated that a family from CaymanBrac has offered to take on the expenses involved in the completionof the desired 25-meter pool on the Brac.
The CUC half-mile sea swim afforded an opportunity to see thevisiting swimmers in action, and a total of 124 participants turnedout for the event.
Rachel Harris of Australia turned in a fine time of nine minutes,49 seconds to gain the victory, as William Balderamos was runner-upat 9:56. Several other Olympians swam; still other presented awards.
The real winners this past week, however, were all the peoplewho were fortunate enough to have made the acquaintance of theseoutstanding individuals.