Kentish Express Ashford & District
Just two in their team – and they still won trophy!
Cub swimmers amazing success at gala
When Bethersden Cub Scout pack discovered only two of its members were available to take part in the Ashford district swimming gala, Akela Mary Ford did wonder whether it was worth taking part.
But having paid the £15 entry fee and not wanting to disappoint the pack’s two available swimmers she decided to persevere and boy did that decision pay off.
Bethersden’s Charlie Roberts, eight, and Clarissa Bispham, nine, not only won or finished second in all the races they took part in but also secured enough points to help their pack retain the district swimming shield it had won with a full team the year before.
A delighted Mrs Ford said: “I just couldn’t believe it, I was absolutely astounded.
“We only have nine Cubs in our pack anyway. Quite a few of them are pupils at Pluckley Primary School and the school had an event that night so they couldn’t take part in the swimming gala.
“But we took part anyway with Charlie and Clarissa, who are both keen swimmers.”
Charlie scored wins and runners-up spots in the under 9/10 and 11s width races for back stroke and front crawl and Clarissa triumphed in the under 10 and 11s length races for front crawl and back stroke and also the 50 metre front crawl.
Mrs Ford added: “Much to our surprise when all of the scores were added together we’d won again this year. “It was amazing.” The event was held at Ashford’s Stour Centre swimming pool and involved 10 teams from Cub packs across the district.
Charlie had already left the sports centre before the winning team was announced.
Mrs Ford, who has been connected with Bethersden Cub Scouts for 40 years, added: “I phoned him to tell him what had happened and he just said ‘wow’, and I never, ever thought that we would win either.”
The pack is hoping to expand its leadership team, anyone interested is asked to call Mrs Ford on 01233 820989