By: Coach Emer Matienzo

Marikina City – The 1st Atlantean Swimming Tournament Class ABCD saw over 400 swimmers from various teams battle it out yesterday, September 29, 2024, at the Marikina Sports Park swimming pool. Hosted by the Atlantean Swimming Club, the competition was led by the club’s energetic head coach, Lou Gaerlan, who also heads the Jose Rizal College Swimming Team.
The day began with a heartfelt opening prayer by the host team, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem. Despite the gloomy skies, the weather stayed dry—perfect conditions for an intense day of swimming. Swimmers of all ages hit the water, ready to showcase their hard work and determination.

Coach Lou Gaerlan shared the purpose behind the meet. “Our goal, aside from giving these swimmers a quality competition experience, is to raise funds for new swimming equipment for our growing team,” Coach Lou explained to the coaches and swimmers. He also introduced a new motivational standard for the Class A division, aiming to push swimmers to reach even faster times. “We’re encouraging our Class A swimmers to challenge themselves. This meet sets the bar higher for them, and it will prepare them for bigger competitions down the line,” Coach Lou added with a smile.
The meet, held under the supervision of Solid Coaches Association of the Philippines (SCAP) President Ronald Nicdao, was praised for its organization. Nicdao mentioned that more exciting competitions are on the horizon. “We will be releasing this year’s competition calendar very soon, and next year, we’re planning even more swimmer-centered, quality meets,” Nicdao said. “It’s all about giving these athletes the best opportunities to compete and grow.”

Veteran officials Mr. Danilo Anore and Mr. Vic Cleofe kept the competition fair and running smoothly throughout the day. As the races unfolded, spectators were treated to thrilling swims and standout performances.
Among the swimmers who shone were Chrysanthe Lyanna Ohagan, Gian Matthew Sumajit, Uriah Amber Campo, Judah Miguel Cabebe, Angelica Christelle Briones, Ezra Discimulacion, Iana Frances Gonzales, Mark Cail Compleza, Jann Kreyenne Mendoza, Qarin Ibn Arafat Reyes, Alvine Zeighden Jacinto, Angelo Ramuelle Briones, Sinagtala Cuevas, Kevin Bryle Chan, Jamela Manocan, Marc Lebron Racoma, and Luke Amber Matthew Araño. These swimmers posted spectacular times in their age groups, drawing loud cheers from the excited crowd.
One of the day’s most thrilling moments came in the final event—the mixed mystery relay. The race was neck-and-neck, especially between the teams competing for 1st and 2nd runner-up, and the poolside erupted with cheers as the swimmers fought hard to the finish.

In the team standings, the Turumba Guadalupe Swimming Team secured the 2nd runner-up spot with 926.50 points. The host team, Atlantean Dolphins Swimming Club, finished as the 1st runner-up with 928.50 points, barely edging out Turumba in a fierce battle. However, the CM Riptide Swim Team took home the championship title, dominating the event with an impressive 1,385 points.
As the meet drew to a close, everyone was already looking forward to the next competition, which will take place this Saturday, October 5, 2024, at the beautiful Bosay Resort. This upcoming event, supported by Swim League Philippines and SCAP, will be another Class ABCD competition, but unlike the previous competitions, swimmers will race against others in their own age groups. Teams are encouraged to contact the Bosay Resort office to take advantage of the 50% hotel discount promos available for swimmers and their families.

Many teams have already booked their stays at the resort for a weekend of relaxation and bonding after months of hard training and competition. “We’re all excited for Bosay,” said Coach Nicdao. “It’s going to be another fantastic opportunity for swimmers to showcase their skills, and after the competition, it’ll be a great chance for teams to unwind and bond.”
With a packed calendar of exciting swimming meets ahead, the future looks bright for Philippine swimming, and yesterday’s tournament was just the start of what promises to be an unforgettable season.