Artistic Swimming – Catalina & Sasha Make a Splash at Nationals

Huge congratulations to Catalina Costa Barnett and Sasha Tychinskaya (LPHS) who capped off the Term Three school holidays with a brilliant bronze medal at the Artistic Swimming Nationals in Wellington!

Competing with their club AquaGold—a small but mighty team—the girls took on strong fields from large North Island squads and still delivered a podium finish. Their result follows an outstanding season that began with 1st place in the Dolphins category at the South Island Secondary Schools competition in Rolleston back in May, which qualified them for Nationals.

Catalina and Sasha swam as part of a four-person AquaGold team alongside Mila Barieter and Emma Horan (both intermediate students), showcasing precision, strength, and artistry throughout their routines. Ka rawe, team!

Thinking of giving artistic swimming a go?
AquaGold would love to welcome more young people to the sport—no previous experience needed, just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. If you’re curious, pop your name in at the Sports Office and we’ll connect you with the club for training times and a trial.

Photo credits: AquaGold team—Catalina Costa Barnett, Sasha Tychinskaya (LPHS), Mila Barieter, and Emma Horan (featured with permission; Mila and Emma have already appeared in their school newsletters at Tahuna and DNI).

Ngā mihi nui to our artistic swimmers—what an awesome achievement!