Brighton College Dubai is proudly making waves in the swimming world, both locally and internationally, following a series of standout performances.
Year 7 pupil and sports scholar Aya Al Damehset a new UAE national record in the 50m Breaststroke at the Dubai International Aquatics Championship in April, finishing with a time of 00:36.51 in the Girls 12 Years category. This outstanding achievement makes her the fastest swimmer in her age group in the country for this event, marking a major milestone in her young swimming career.
Aya followed her national success with an impressive international performance at the World School Games (WSG) Swim Championships, held in London, UK from May 11th to 12th. The competition brought together over 500 athletes from schools worldwide, competing across U11, U13, and U15 categories.
Representing Brighton College Dubai at the prestigious meet, Aya secured a trio of medals – gold in the U13 Girls 50m and 100m Breaststroke, and bronze in the 100m Butterfly – leading the team in one of the most competitive school swimming events of the year.
Brighton College Dubai’s swim team collectively delivered a stellar performance, achieving 57 personal bests across the two-day meet. Further individual success came from Annie Gardiner, who claimed bronze in the U15 Girls 100m Freestyle. In the relay events,Brightons quads earned 4th-place finishes in the U11 Girls 4x50m Freestyle Relay, U11 Girls 4x50m Medley Relay, and U15 Girls 4x50m Medley Relay.
Remarkably, 50% of the Brighton College Dubai team placed in the top 10 of their respective events, a feat made even more impressive given their small squad sizes and the fact that every swimmer competed a full year above their age group.
Sarah Harrod, Director of Sport and Co‑Curricular Coordinator,said:“This year’s swim squad truly rose to the occasion. To perform at such a high level in older age categories, with many first-time competitors, is a testament to their hard work, resilience, and team spirit. Aya’s national record is the cherry on top of what has been a breakthrough year for swimming at Brighton College Dubai.”
Brighton College Dubai continues to set a high standard in sport and academics, with its athletes achieving at the highest levels both locally and abroad. The school’s growing reputation in competitive swimming is supported by its world-class 25-metres wimming pool and dedicated coaching team,reflecting its commitment to nurturing talent and providing exceptional opportunities for its pupils.
