Bronze, Silver and Gold are words which have been very much in the news recently. In this connection the Salvatorian College is not left out. Since the introduction of Swimming into the sporting activities of the school the boys have gained a total of 35 Bronze medals, 7 Silver and 3 Gold, in the A.S.A. survival tests. Our three Gold medallists are R. Owsianka, P. Herbert, and M. Whelan. P. Herbert actually succeeded in obtaining Silver and Gold within a fortnight of each other. A very creditable performance for a boy in his 2nd year.

I think it is worthwhile noting what is required in order to achieve the Gold award. Dressed in shirt, trousers, underpants, socks and long sleeved pullover, a boy must swim 100 yards inside 4 mins.; then tread water for 1 min. with his hands clasped behind his back, and for a further three minutes with the use of his arms and legs. After this he must undress in the water, inflate his clothing to make floats, and with the assistance of these, remain motionless for 5 mins. The test is completed with a swim of 1000 yds. - 30 lengths - going beneath the surface 10 times, head first, and 10 times feet first, to swim through a hoop sunk in 6 ft. of water. This swim has to be achieved in 30 mins. The test from the start to finish has to be non-stop and is concluded by pressing out on the side of the bath, the use of steps is not permitted.

Our first swimming gala was a success but we look forward to a better one next time with a more complete turn out. We should, if this enthusiasm continues achieve a high standard of swimming. This is necessary if we are to hold our own in the Harrow Schools competition, where the standard of swimming is quite high.

The result of the Gala, which was run on a House competition basis, was as follows:

Perhaps we shall be able to gain some awards in the A.S.A. proficiency tests where endurance is not the answer, but speed and style are considered. There are also the awards of the Royal Life Saving Society to be tackled. This is almost a duty for those who have shown that they have proficiency in the water.

A final word to those who are still unable to swim. Fortunately, the number of these is decreasing, but there are still too many. To these non-swimmers I would say - remember it is a duty you owe yourself as well as others, for by learning to swim you may not only be saving your own life but perhaps that of someone else.