Older Queenstown residents claim that the first sports indulged in at the town was swimming, in the pools of the Komani River. It would have been the first choice for a number of boys but for many years Queen's College was not able to offer the sport, lacking a pool or swimming bath as it was termed in earlier times.
The municipal pool, opened at the Rec in 1927, changed all that for Queen's College boys and by the following year some outstanding swimmers and divers had been produced. Various contests were held that year when the boys more than held their own against the local men. Curious, too, were some of the contests held.
Headmaster Herbert Wilkinson was also chairman of the Recreation Grounds Committee, which administered the use of the new pool, and one may be certain that it's use by Queen's College pupils was closely monitored. AD Marais, honorary secretary of the Queenstown Swimming Association, was instrumental in arrangements on behalf of he college.
in 1929, the first fully fledged Queen's swimming gala was held at the Rec pool for the nominal rental of one guinea, and , interestingly, a Queen's polo team took on the Otters Cub, beating the latter by four goals to two. Further competition was provided by the Buffalo Swimming Club form East London
Application for awards
Application for awards When a swimmer has qualified for a First Team or Colours blazer, he must apply in writing to the Teacher-in-charge.
First Team Blazer
A swimmer must have represented Queen's in at least HALF of the galas during the year AND a swimmer must equal or better on three occasions, the first team standard time in any event in the Queen’s gala or galas where Queen's is represented during the year. Performances of swimmers involved in club teams will be considered.
Colours
A swimmer must equal or better on three occasions the colours standard time in any event in the Queen’s Gala or Galas where Queen's is represented during the year.
Honours
A swimmer must be of average national standard.
NOTE: Individuals who represent the First team in either the 4 X 50m Freestyle Team Relay or 4 X 5m Medley Team Relay may have this event included as a qualification for a Team Blazer provided the team finished first or second.
