Outstanding Splash Swims
Four of our Ohio Splashers recently competed at the International Gay & Lesbian Aquatics (IGLA) 2016 Championship, hosted by Making Waves Swim Club. The championship was held August 9 through 14, 2016 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. In addition to swimming, the championship featured competitions in Diving and Water Polo. This year in lieu of a Synchronized Swimming competition, San Francisco Tsunami conducted a synchro-demonstration; inviting participation from fellow IGLA athletes.
Splashers Paul, Dan D, Andrew P, and Bob competed together in many individual events, along with two relays: the men’s 4x200m freestyle, and the men’s 4×100 medley relay. Together, they returned with 12 medals, including two gold, five silver, and five bronze!
Friendships Made, Renewed
Our Splashers renewed many friendships initiated at the Gay Games in Cleveland, and established many new enduring acquaintances with our fellow IGLA athletes. Over 250 swimmers participated, representing countries on four continents! More information on participation and meet results can be found at this link.
Teams Participating
A total of 51 clubs participated in IGLA 2016 Championships. Ohio Splash congratulates all swimmers, divers, water polo players, synchronized swimming, and open water swimmers on outstanding performances! Special congratulations go to the Ugandan Kuchus Aquatic Team winning in the small teams category. These brave athletes return to Uganda as IGLA 2016 champions.
In typical IGLA style, the week of competition rounded out with the Pink Flamingo on Saturday afternoon. Congratulations to San Francisco Tsunami on their win in the Pink Flamingo with their outstanding presentation of this year’s theme, “Burlesque, eh?”
Our Thanks
Ohio Splash would like to extend our gratitude to the organizers of this year’s IGLA Championship and specifically recognize the dedicated individuals at IGLA who coordinate these championships, our host team Making Waves, the City of Edmonton, and the Province of Alberta. Thank you to the volunteers at the Kinsmen Sports Centre and the countless hours of volunteering from the community to make this event such a success.