As part of the GEMS Sports Series, 637 students across GEMS Education schools in the UAE and Nairobi participated in the third edition of the GEMS Swim Cup in Dubai.

Held at the Hamdan Sport Complex, it was the first time that GEMS Sports Series hosted international students where 24 pupils from the Cambridge International School, Nairobi competed.

Among the winners was Marwan Kashkoush. The 13-year-old student won the 50m freestyle and was delighted to stand top of the podium. “I was really excited to win gold in the freestyle 50m,” he said. “I have won medals at international events and this felt just as good as they did.”

The GEMS Wellington Academy pupil added: “I love the fact that some strong teams like Jumeriah College and Wellington International School compete against us. The Nairobi school was a great addition and I hope to see many more schools at next year’s event. This one of our favourite events in the season.”

Anna Thompson was the girls winner of the competition and the seven-year-old was happy to reign supreme.

“I am super proud and great achievement for me,” she said. “Everyone tried to do their best. The competition can only be good for my development as there were so many swimmers from different schools. It’s given me an insight on what I can aim for.”