By Xander Ledesma
Georgia Francesca Carmina Tan, a rising star in artistic swimming hailing from Bacolod City, achieved a remarkable feat on November 24, 2024, by winning three medals, including a gold, at the 18th Singapore Open Artistic Swimming Championships. The event, held at the Singapore Aquatic Center, featured elite competitors from across Asia and beyond.
Tan clinched gold in the Solo Free Group C Open Seniors category with an impressive score of 96.6370 points, narrowly edging out Sri Lanka’s Shashani Fernando, who scored 95.3589 points. This achievement marks a significant milestone in Tan’s athletic career and cements her status as a formidable talent on the international stage.
In addition to her gold medal, Tan also secured silver and bronze in other events, showcasing her versatility and skill in a highly competitive field. Her success reflects the growing prominence of Filipino athletes in less conventional sports, such as artistic swimming.
Born and raised in Bacolod City, Tan began her journey in artistic swimming at a young age, training locally before relocating to California to refine her skills further. Her accomplishments serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, particularly those from provincial areas, demonstrating that with dedication and perseverance, global recognition is attainable.
Artistic swimming, a discipline that combines elements of swimming, dance, and gymnastics, demands both technical precision and artistic expression. Tan’s performances at the Singapore Open exemplify these qualities, earning her accolades from judges and spectators alike.
The Singapore Open Championships are regarded as a premier event in the sport, offering athletes a platform to compete at the highest level. Tan’s success at the event aligns with the Philippines’ growing emphasis on developing athletes in niche sports and fostering international competitiveness.