The search for new swimming phenoms continues as the Congress of Philippine Aquatics (COPA) stages One for All-All for One Swim Series Leg 3 on Sunday at the Teofilo Ildefonso Swimming pool inside the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Malate, Manila.
Sponsored by Speedo Philippines and the Philippine Sports Commission and sanctioned by the Philippine Aquatics, Inc. (PAI), the swim series features the best junior swimmers and inspired novice athletes as part of the extensive program at the grassroots level of COPA, led by swimming icon and Batangas 1st District Congressman Eric Buhain.
Tournament director Chito Rivera, also president of the Samahang Manlalangoy sa Pilipinas, said the competition is open to all young swimmers regardless of their affiliations with swimming clubs or organizations.
“Since Day 1, when the Philippine Olympic Committee and World Aquatics recognized PAI as a legitimate swimming association in the country, PAI’s program has promoted grassroots development. Para sa lahat as we campaign for inclusivity and not exclusivity,” said Rivera.
Rivera asserted that the tournament is also part of the swimmers’ preparations for PAI’s national tryouts for teams competing in the Southeast Asian Age Group Championship, scheduled for December in Bangkok, Thailand.