ROBERT Pratt and Samantha Calcutt of Kelly College Swim Squad were both selected to swim for the West of England, thereby gaining their first opportunity of international competition.
There was, however, a problem to go with their elation of being selected, as both were due to start their GCSE examinations very soon.
The swim meet was to take place in Caen, France, as part of the French Grand Prix Circuit, with tough opposition being expected. Their GCSEs were on the Monday afternoon with their ferry returning to Portsmouth at 6.30am.
Sam Calcutt thought deeply about what to do: her heart said swim, but her head said GCSEs must come first, and she withdrew from the team.
Robert Pratt was in a better position to go, and looked forward to the competition. On his return he was still elated with his 400 metres free style time.
Coach Archie Brew told him before he left for France that the target was to get to the final. This he did by getting sixth place in the 400m freestyle, good for a lad of 16 as well as a personal best time. Robert also took part in the 200m freestyle, with another personal best time in both events.
Robert said the pool facilities in Caen were 'out of the world'.