GUAM SWIMMERS ACHIEVE NEW PR’S IN BACOLOD

PRESS RELEASE – Ten swimmers competed over the weekend at the Congress of Philippine Aquatics (COPA) – Philippine Aquatics Incorporated (PAI) Swim Challenge meet held June 15-16, 2024, at the University of St. La Salle in Bacolod, Philippines. Athletes Mia Lee, John Moore IV, and Keana Santos made their return to Bacolod competition joined by swimmers Matua Camacho, Tanom Camacho, Skyler Dueñas, Logan Gandaoli, Demi Blu Hurchanik, Nina Lee, and Blake Whitaker. All Guam swimmers achieved new personal records as they competed against more than 300 athletes from 24 teams representing Bacolod, Talisay City, Dumaguete, Iloilo and various other regions of the Philippines in over 42 individual events and relays at this two-day swim meet.

“Amphibious Aquatics continues to provide opportunities for Guam athletes to train, compete and demonstrate grit, skill and their commitment to the sport,” said head coach Andy Lee, Amphibious Aquatics. “We’re grateful to have been invited back to compete with swimmers from across the Philippines here at the University of St. La Salle. Si Yu’os Ma’åse and Maraming Salamat Po to our hosts, COPA, PAI, Minulu-an Pirates, the Crocs Swim team, Cadiz Whales and all the swim challenge competitors. As always, we give special thanks to our swimmers, their families, and the community for their support.”

“We are so excited to welcome our friends from Guam back to Bacolod to compete in this weekend’s swim challenge,” said Coach Cris Bancal, Congress of Philippine Aquatics (CoPA) event organizer. “It’s always a great experience connecting with Guam swimmers, and we look forward to visiting your beautiful island in the future with our Philippine teams.”

Medal Haul & Most Outstanding Swimmer Trophy

Amphibious athletes showcased exceptional talent and determination throughout the competition, with each travel team member delivering remarkable performances in their respective events. The team’s hard work and training paid off as they clinched a total of 51 event medals: 21 gold, 12 silver, and 18 bronze medals. In addition to the impressive medal haul, Team Captain Mia Lee also secured the prestigious Most Outstanding Swimmer trophy for her exceptional performance and high point total in the competition.

“We’re incredibly proud of our athletes and their outstanding performance at this international competition,” said President Jennifer C. Camacho, Amphibious Aquatics. “To witness their hard work, dedication, and strong teamwork is inspiring beyond words. The entire travel team showed tremendous grit and shared the Håfa Adai spirit with their competitors and event organizers.”

Amphibious Travel Team would like to extend their gratitude to their supporters, sponsors, the Guam Visitors Bureau, and the local community for their unwavering support as they continue to train, travel, and compete this summer.

Event results

Led by Amphibious Coaches Andy Lee and Julia Johnson, swimmers 9-16 years old competed in this international swim meet. Guam swimmers were awarded 51 event medals: 21 gold, 12 silver, and 18 bronze medals. The following swimmers received awards for the most significant improvements in time (PR Smashers): Gold: Demi Blu Hurchanik (-19.6: 200 Freestyle) & Tanom Camacho (-16.2: 200 Freestyle); Silver: Blake Whitaker (-12.4: 200 Freestyle) & Keana Santos (-9.3: 200 Individual Medley); Bronze: Logan Gandaoli (-11.8: 200 Individual Medley) & Nina Lee (-5.53: 100 Breaststroke). In addition to numerous personal records, the following swimmers placed in various events: