Sport News

GSV Swimming & Diving

The 2020 GSV Swimming season, albeit shorter than usual, was as exciting and passionate as ever, with impressive efforts and enthusiasm shown by all 70 swimmers.

The participation in early morning training sessions developed stroke technique, power and aerobic fitness. Eagerness filled the pool at the weekly PB meets, which allowed students to practise in a racing environment and refine their skills. This excellence in training was just one part of the reason that led the team to secure first place in the Preliminary Carnival and a win in all age groups. The Diving Team, captained by Mercedes Purcell (Year 12), also accomplished an impressive feat, winning the Preliminary Diving Carnival. The teams qualified for the Division 1 Championship Carnival and although were not able to compete, we are sure that the girls would have done us proud, never failing to do their best and show the true Loreto Toorak sporting spirit. Our swimming success was also evident in the Victorian All Schools Relay Championship event, where 37 of our athletes performed exceptionally well in the relays of all four strokes as well as the medley. The outstanding races from every swimmer put Loreto Toorak in second place in the girls’ division, which amongst extremely tough competition from all over the state, was an excellent achievement.

Swim Team at the Victorian All Schools Relay Championship event.

MADELEINE HOOKER AND ALEXANDRA RAPKINS, SWIMMING CAPTAINS

GSV Triathlon

Above: GSV Triathlon team, at Altona beach.

Triathlon is always an enjoyable sport to train, with weekly sessions taking place at Elwood beach. Students learn skills such as beach running, flags, wading and swimming. Over 120 students were able to compete at the GSV Triathlon event at Altona beach, and it was impressive to see so many girls excited to swim, ride and run. Students competed in team sections, where they completed one leg of the event for their team or the full individual triathlon. Loreto Toorak achieved great success and were awarded the overall premier team of the event, with eight medals won.

The Triathlon team was captained by Gretel McKenzie and Ruby Richardson (Year 12).

GirlSail

We congratulate the six students from Loreto Toorak who participated in the annual GirlSail Sailing event, competing against the state at Davey’s Bay, Mount Eliza. It was an enjoyable day on the bay for the regatta, where the sailing teams of two worked together, along with a skipper and a crew, which emphasised the need for communication and teamwork. The girls sailed in a Pacer boat over three heats in different fleets. It was wonderful to see our excellent sailors representing Loreto Toorak at their chosen sport.

Natalie Gleeson (Year 7), Angelique Gleeson (Year 10), Hayley Archer (Year 9), Claudia McMahon (Year 9)

JENNA WARD, HEAD OF SPORT