Lipa hosts ASAP swim meet

MANILA, Philippines - Lipa Mayor Oscar Gozos recently gave Southern Luzon’s grassroots swimming program a shot in the arm with his hosting of the Aquatic Sports Association of the Philippines (ASAP) age group swimming competition March 13 in his home city.

ASAP secretary general Susan Papa said Gozos had offered the free use of the 50-meter pool, built by former city mayor Vilma Santos, for the event which will be held free of charge to any interested age group swimmers.

“At least 500 swimmers will benefit from the generosity of Mayor Gozos,” said Papa, who is organizing the meet in cooperation with Emil Amago, head coach of the Lipa Mediatrix Swim Club.

Age-group events are for eight years and under, 9-10, 11-12, 13-14, 15-17 for boys and girls.

“The Batangas meet will be a unique competition to visiting participants – ASAP members from NCR and Central Luzon – as it will be free, competitive and educational.” said Papa.

Also to be held during the competition is a coaching seminar, where ASAP national coaches Dennis Cordero, Manny Thruelen and Papa, a former Olympian, will lend their expertise to local coaches to help swimmers advance to the next level.

Free coaching clinics are also part of the year-round, nationwide grassroots development program of ASAP.