Marikina City, March 29, 2025 – The waters of Marikina Sports Park’s swimming pool rippled with excitement as the 7th Marikina Swimming Club Invitational Swimming Meet Class ABC kicked off with a bang! Hosted by the hardworking and dedicated Coach Angel Rastrullo, the meet lived up to its promise of top-tier competition, camaraderie, and, of course, a whole lot of splashing fun.
With over 22 teams from various swimming clubs vying for supremacy, the meet was a battlefield of speed and endurance. As early as 5:00 AM, determined swimmers began warming up, their strokes slicing through the water with precision. By 8:30 AM, the event was in full swing, starting with a solemn prayer and a heartfelt rendition of the Philippine national anthem.
The first event, the thrilling 4×50-meter medley relay, had the crowd on their feet, their cheers rivaling the splashes in the pool. The electrifying atmosphere was a testament to the passion of both the athletes and their supporters.
Rising Stars and Established Names Shine
The meet wasn’t just about competition; it was also a stage for promising young swimmers to make their mark. Among the standout performers were Precious Keana Balindoa, Riley Gideon Macabasag, Amity Faith Cardenas, James Michael Fadriquela, Annika Orlina, Brentt Vaughn Romanes, Jordane Porsche Sales, Arc Renzy Valdez, Mariae Rafaelle Tungul, Clint Xymon Billaoac, Clint Xymon Avergonzado, Sean Cyrus Pintang, Joana Claren De Jesus, and Vince Valeros. These young athletes showcased their speed and endurance, leaving spectators and scouts excited for the future of Philippine swimming.
“I see a bright future for these kids,” remarked Fred Galang Ancheta, the dashing President of Swim League Philippines. “With the right training and support, we could very well be looking at our future Olympians!”
Even though he couldn’t be physically present, President Fred Galang Ancheta stayed updated about the meet, checking in with the organizers and offering his unwavering support. “My heart is with you all, and I am cheering for each swimmer,” he said in a message.
View Swimming Gear Makes a Splash
The main sponsor of the meet, View Swimming Gear, added an extra layer of excitement to the event. Known for its cutting-edge technology, such as anti-fog treatments and prescription lens options, View has been a trusted brand among competitive swimmers worldwide. (Side note: I’ll definitely post more about View when they sponsor my swim meet in September 2025—just saying! Haha!)
A Feast Fit for Champions (and Officials!)
No swim meet is complete without good food, and the hardworking officials were treated to a well-deserved merienda of pancit and puto, followed by a hearty lunch of sisig with egg. Because let’s face it, officiating a fast-paced swim meet requires energy, and what better way to refuel than with some classic Filipino favorites?
The Podium Finishers
The battle for the top spot was intense, but in the end, three teams emerged victorious:
- 3rd Place: Cainta Aquatics Sports Club – 466.50 points
- 2nd Place: Marikina Swimming Club (Host) – 731 points
- Champion: Marikina Poseidon Swimming Club – 1301.50 points (truly living up to their sea-god namesake!)
Coach Angel extended his heartfelt gratitude to all participating teams, coaches, and the ever-supportive parents. “Without the tireless efforts of our parents, none of this would be possible. They are the backbone of the Marikina Swimming Club,” he emphasized.
A Look Ahead
For those who can’t get enough of the action, Philswimming.com is gearing up to cover the 2nd Cavite Sealions Swim Cup on April 26, 2025, at the Marikina Sports Center. Led by the legendary Coach Joseph (a.k.a. Kumander Osep), this meet promises to be another thrilling showcase of talent and determination.
Philippine Swimming Trivia: Did You Know?
- The Philippines’ first Olympic swimmer was Teofilo Yldefonso, who won two bronze medals in the 200m breaststroke event at the 1928 and 1932 Olympics. He remains the country’s only Olympic swimming medalist to date!
- Akiko Thomson, a household name in Philippine swimming, dominated the Southeast Asian Games during the late ‘80s and ‘90s, winning multiple gold medals and setting national records.
- Today’s young swimmers are training harder than ever, with many aiming to follow in the footsteps of legends and make their mark on the international stage.
With this level of talent and dedication, the future of Philippine swimming looks brighter than ever. Until the next meet, keep swimming fast and dreaming big!