The Northern Swimming Pool was full of penguins last Saturday (13th March) but they hadn’t escaped from the Wildlife Park!
The inflatable toys were being used by 90 young people taking part the Department of Education Youth Service’s annual Wet ‘n’ Wild fun gala.
Eighteen teams competed in nine events bearing colourful names that included Froggy Frolics, Singing Aliens in the Rain, Killer Crocs and Jigsaw Jollies.
"The sight of inflatable crocodiles snapping at the heels of swimmers was enjoyed by spectators and participants," said Youth and Community Adviser Mike Clague.
He explained, "The event has been held for at least 18 years and is as popular as ever. Each year we have lots of teams on the reserve list.
"A swimmer told us that it was a far better way to spend a Saturday evening than sitting at home watching TV and we certainly agree. In the Youth Service, we take fun seriously!"
Teams from two age groups took part: children in School Years 4, 5 and 6 and young people in School Year 7+.
The results were:
Years 4 – 6
1 Castletown play club
2 Aliens (The Foundry)
3 Ballaugh play club
4 Pony Club
5 Michael play club ‘B’
6 Michael play club ‘A’
7 Laxey & Lonan play club
The swimmers for Castletown play club were Harrison Katz, Juan Moore, Hannah Clayton, Jack Clayton and Ryan Whitley.
Years 7+
1 Team Balla
2 The Foundry
3 Pony Club
4 Team Jellyfish
5 Fish on a Bike (Foxdale youth club)
6 Laxey & Lonan youth club
7 Ballaugh youth club
8 Ramsey youth club
9 GLS (Castletown youth club)
10 Team Ducks (St Mary’s Guides)
11 Tangy Heat Wavz
Team Balla swimmers were Nicole Burns, Chelsea Bawden, Molly Tomlinson, Charlotte Bawden and Tammy Preskey.
The very collectable trophies of mounted plastic fish were presented to winning teams by Youth and Community Worker Caroline Walter.
Organiser Mr Clague thanked the pool manager and lifeguards and volunteers, including starter and equipment organiser Liz Clague, referee Ken Callister and James Maynard.
