Hundreds engage in BPTT vacation swimming camp

Hundreds of young people from across the south-eastern region took advantage of the opportunity to learn to swim at the Mayaro Resource Centre over the July, August vacation period. Sponsored by energy company bpTT, the free classes were accessed by young swimming enthusiasts ranging from three to 17 years of age. This annual initiative has yielded added benefits as nine participants from last year’s camp have gone on to more advanced levels, including winning school swimming competitions.

 

 

Ronda Francis, Corporate Responsibility Manager, bpTT, explained the rationale for the camp. “This was a very successful initiative last year and produced a number of benefits, the most important of which is making these young people comfortable and capable in an aquatic environment. In addition to learning swimming safety and techniques, they have loads of fun under the careful guidance of the trained instructors. We’re also very proud of the fact that this camp has facilitated the discovery of talented young swimmers,” Francis said. The classes were co-ordinated by Denise Sullivan, with highly experienced lifeguard, Sheriff Jan, heading the team of trained swim instructors. 

 

 

The youngsters also gained a wealth of knowledge from a presentation and practical demonstration on water safety by Allister Livingston and Joel Gachette of the Ministry of Tourism. “During the classes, beginners learn basic swimming and survival skills such as treading water, and the more experienced swimmers learn new techniques. “As a coastal village we think that it is imperative that these kids be aware of water safety. Another bonus is that we will be able to identify the children with talent,” Sullivan explained.