68th Secondary Schools Swimming Championships

Last Friday I had to finish work very promptly as we had an hour and ten-minute drive ahead of us to get Holly over to Watford, where she had been selected by her school to compete in the 68th Secondary Schools Swimming Championships.

Only eight students from her school were selected to represent them, so for Holly to even make the team was a huge honour in itself and something she should be really proud of.

The events were all relay races, with mixed teams made up of two boys and two girls. Even just sitting there watching as a spectator, I was genuinely in awe of how good some of the swimmers were. The standard was incredibly high!

Holly finished 4th in both of her races, but she certainly held her own, competing against some very strong boys in her heats. It pains me to admit it, but she is now by far a better swimmer than me — which means all three of the kids can officially outswim their dad! 😂

Thankfully, I still have them at running and cycling… for the time being anyway! 🚴‍♂️🏃‍♂️

One thing that impressed me most with Holly was just how good her kick turns have become. She looked really strong in the pool and it was great to see how much her swimming has developed. The only slight disadvantage she had was with her dive. She doesn't get many opportunities to practise diving, and she wasn't confident enough to dive from the block, meaning she was the only swimmer in her race to start from in the pool.

Even so, she got stuck in and gave it everything, and it was an absolute pleasure to watch her compete and represent her school.

And what a great start to the weekend for me. Despite not getting home until around 10pm, I wouldn't have it any other way. These are the moments you happily give up your time for as a parent — travelling halfway across the country, sitting in a swimming pool for hours and getting home late, all just to watch your kids do something they're proud of.

You really do live for these moments. ❤️

Proudly wearing the Beauchamp's team swimming hat.

Showing great technique and holding her own against the boys.

Setting up for the kick turn at the half way stage.

Drawing level with 3rd place on the return leg.

Part of me wishes I had her technique in the pool. Effortless and minimal splashing unlike me!

Then she just started to tighten up and get tired.

Touching the wall timer in 4th place but still in a very quick time.