Media Release
Mangaluru, Mar 27: Alaister Samuel Rego, a proud second-year student of St Aloysius Pre-University College, has been making waves in the competitive swimming arena with his exceptional talent and dedication. Hailing from a supportive family, Alaister draws strength and encouragement from his parents, Victor Vijay Rego and Shirley Laveena Rego, who have played a vital role in nurturing his passion for the sport. His younger sister, Alyssa Sweedal Rego, a class eight student at Ladyhill Victoria Girls’ High School, Urwa, has also followed in his footsteps, excelling in swimming. Alyssa was crowned an individual champion at the nationals in 2021 in the sub-junior category. Alaister’s journey in swimming is a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and passion for the sport.
Early beginnings
Alaister’s swimming journey began at the tender age of four at the Jai Hind Swimming Club, Mangala Swimming Pool, under the guidance of coach Ramakrishna Rao. In 2019, he transitioned to We One Aqua Centre at St Aloysius Swimming Pool, where he was mentored by coaches Lokaraj, Yajnesh, and Sanjo. Under the guidance of Dronacharya awardee coach Nihar Ameen from Dolphin Aquatics, Bengaluru, Alaister refined his skills, setting the stage for a remarkable career. His first national medal came in 2021 at a championship held by the Swimming Federation of India, and he also qualified for the Khelo India Youth Games, marking the beginning of his rise in competitive swimming.
A trail of victories
Alaister’s remarkable journey has been punctuated with stellar achievements. His exceptional performance at the Karnataka State swimming championships in July 2024 showcased his versatility. He clinched a silver medal in the 50m freestyle, bronze medals in the 50m butterfly and 200m freestyle, and emerged victorious with gold medals in the freestyle relay and medley relay.
In August 2024, Alaister represented Karnataka at the prestigious 50th junior National aquatic championship in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. His determination and skill shone brightly as he secured gold medals in the 4x100m freestyle relay and the 4x200m freestyle relay, cementing his position as a national-level champion.
October 2024 added another feather to his cap as he competed in the state level sports meet of the department of school education (Pre-University) in Bangalore. Alaister won silver medals in the 100m freestyle, 200m freestyle, and team events, including the 4x100m freestyle relay and 4x100m medley relay, demonstrating his consistency and resilience.
He reached the pinnacle of his achievements at the 68th National level swimming competition, organized by the National School Games Federation of India, held in Gujarat. Alaister’s stellar performance earned him a gold medal in the 4x100m freestyle relay and a bronze medal in the 200m freestyle category, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier swimmer in the country.
In January 2025, Alaister added another remarkable feat to his list of accomplishments. At the Karnataka Kreeda Koota 2025, jointly organized by the youth empowerment & sports association and the Karnataka Olympics Association, on January 21 and 22, and held at Yemmekere Swimming Pool, Mangaluru, Alaister secured 2 gold medals in the 4x100m freestyle and medley relay, a silver medal in the 100m butterfly, and 2 bronze medals in the 100m breaststroke and 200m freestyle.
An inspiration to all
Balancing rigorous training sessions with academic responsibilities, Alaister has shown that excellence can be achieved through dedication and focus. His achievements are a source of inspiration for his peers and a matter of immense pride for our institution.
The principal, management and staff of St Aloysius Pre-university College have congratulated Alaister Samuel Rego on his phenomenal success and wished him the very best in his future endeavors as he continues to strive for greater heights, leaving an indelible mark on the world of swimming and bringing further laurels to his family, college, and state.