Grenadian swim coach pleased with Vincentians’ progress

Michael Davidson, one of the persons credited with getting competitive swimming in St Vincent and the Grenadines going, is pleased with the progress made over the years.{{more}}

Davidson, who spent over three years here over 15 years ago, was back in what he calls his “second home” for last weekend’s Scotia Bank swim meet, put on by the St Vincent and the Grenadines Swimming Federation and staged at the Shrewsbury Aquatic Centre at Ratho Mill.

In an interview with SEARCHLIGHT last Sunday, Davidson said, “It is amazing of the amount of work that has been done here with your facilities… It is a complete difference from when I was here back in the late 1990’s.”

The Grenadian was making reference to the five-lane 25-metre pool and added amenities which now exist at the Shrewsbury Aquatic Centre.

Davidson observed that whilst the facilities were not as they are today, the swimmers used them, and used them well.

“St Vincent and the Grenadines has real talent… It is good to see that St Vincent (and the Grenadines) can go to Carifta and medal; years ago, you all could not have medalled, even at the OECS level,” Davidson observed.

Tracking the sport for the Vincentians in the sub-region, Davidson noted that whilst St Vincent and the Grenadines is yet to take the OECS title, “they have made a mark”.

“When you see swimmers coming from here and breaking records at OECS, you know something is being done,” Davidson claimed, as he gave compliments to all the coaches who have been working over the years.

Recounting his first dip in swimming in St Vincent and the Grenadines, Davidson said a workshop in 1997, initiated by then director of sports and physical education Lynette Glasgow sparked the interest.

He recalled 75 persons attended the workshop, which was held at Tropic Breeze Hotel.

“By the year 2000, St Vincent and the Grenadines could have reached the Junior Carifta final in the 200m and the 50m freestyle,” Davidson reminisced.

Davidson, who was part of the Dolphin Swim Club which competed in last weekend’s meet, lauded the efforts of all who over the years, have paddled their way in helping to make the sport sustainable.(RT)