DOUBLE WIN. Nicola Queen Diamante in action during the Congress of Philippine Aquatics, Inc. (COPA) Reunion Swim Challenge Leg 3 at the Teofilo Ildefonso Swimming Center inside the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Malate, Manila on Oct. 22, 2022. The COPA Swim Series Leg 3 will be held on April 14, 2024 in the same venue. (Contributed photo)
MANILA – The Congress of Philippine Aquatics (COPA) resumes its grassroots development program with the staging of the One for All, All for One Swim Series Leg 3 on April 14 at the Teofilo Ildefonso swimming pool inside the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Malate, Manila.
Tournament director Chito Rivera said the competition is open to all young swimmers regardless of their affiliation with swimming clubs or organizations.
"Since Day 1, when the Philippine Olympic Committee and World Aquatics recognized the Philippine Aquatics, Inc. (PAI) as a legitimate swimming association in the country, PAI's program has promoted grassroots development. We campaign for inclusivity and not exclusivity,” said Rivera, who serves as PAI executive director.
Students from public schools and with no regular swimming clubs can participate in the tournament for free.
"Just bring proof that they are enrolled in the school and their participation fee is free," said Rivera, also president of the Samahang Manlalangoy sa Pilipinas (SMP).
He added the tournament will also prepare the swimmers for the PAI national tryouts for the Southeast Asian Age Group Championship, scheduled for December in Bangkok, Thailand.
The country's top juniors are also expected to join the swim series leg 3 organized by COPA, which is headed by Batangas 1st District Rep. Eric Buhain. Supporting the event are Speedo Philippines and the Philippine Sports Commission. (PNA)
