By: Coach Emer Matienzo

The aquatic world united yesterday, November 11, 2023, at the Philippine Columbian Association swimming pool in Paco, Manila, for the prestigious Malabon Swim Team Champions Cup. This meet wasn’t just about the competition; it was a heartfelt tribute to the late Malabon Swimming Team Head Coach Dhino Trinidad, who passed away two months ago. The event was a beacon of remembrance, respect, and celebration of his legacy.

Presented by the Malabon Swimming Team in collaboration with the Swim League Philippines (SLP) and the Solid Swimming Coaches Association of the Philippines (SSCAP), along with partners Splash n Dash and Yingfa Philippines, the event drew 286 swimmers from various backgrounds and skill levels.

The day kicked off with the Novice swimmers competing in the morning session, followed by the highly anticipated Class ABC Swimmers in the afternoon, which began at 1 pm. The event was graced by Swim League Philippines President Fred Ancheta and SLP Director Philbert Papa, who not only supervised the event but also took time to coach the new meet announcer before rushing off to support the 5th Marikina Swimming Club Invitational Swim Meet Class ABC Meet held at Marikina Sports Center Pool. Their dedication to the sport and the community was evident as they later returned to the Philippine Columbian Pool in the late afternoon to oversee the meet and assist in the awards ceremony.

The generosity of the hosts shone through as they raffled bags and smartwatches, delighting lucky winners. Personalized neck pillows were also given away, adding a personal touch to the event.

Meet officials, led by Solid Coaches Association President Ronald Nicdao, ensured the event’s smooth operation. Coach Marvin Villa served as the Meet Referee, while diligent individuals like me and Lean Muli took charge of result encoding using the Meet Manager software.

The highlight of the event was the announcement made by SLP President Fred Ancheta regarding the upcoming grand competition, The Distance Swim Super Series. Scheduled for November 25-26, 2023, at the Muntinlupa Aquatic Center in Brgy. Tunasan, Muntinlupa City, this event promises to be a Class AB, CD-Motivational Meet. It will also welcome Para Swimmers & Masters swimmers, making it an inclusive and diverse gathering for the swimming community.

As the Malabon Swim Team Champions Cup 2023 concluded, it left a legacy of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and a dedication to the late Coach Dhino Trinidad. The event not only showcased remarkable talent but also served as a fitting tribute to a beloved mentor.