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- February 21, 2025
SVD Syuradikara Swimmers Shine in Bangkok, Bring Home Medals
The students of Syuradikara Catholic High School, an SVD-run school, showcased their exceptional talent at the Asian Open School Invitation Swimming Championship held in Bangkok, Thailand, from February 6-9, 2025.
Four talented swimmers—Magdalena Queensa Ndu, Abraham Leonard Watik, Fajar Kanda Aro Umardy, and Arsenius Madio Juliano Witi—clinched gold, silver, and bronze medals, solidifying their place among Asia’s top young athletes.
The competition, which brought together top student swimmers from across the region, witnessed outstanding performances from the Syuradikara team.
Abraham Leonard Watik emerged as a gold medalist, marking a significant achievement for both his school and Indonesia.
Upon their return to Ende, Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, the champions received a hero’s welcome on February 15, 2025.
Hundreds of students, teachers, and school staff gathered at Haji Hasan Aroeboessman Airport, Ende, to greet the athletes, their cheers echoing through the terminal.
A white pickup truck, adorned with the Indonesian flag and yellow-white fabric, awaited the champions, ready to take them back to Syuradikara Catholic High School in a celebratory parade.
“Syuradikara is truly extraordinary! These are international champions, not just any competitors,” said Yansen Sani, one of the drivers witnessing the momentous occasion.
A Legacy of Excellence and Pride on the International Stage
Founded on September 1, 1953, Syuradikara Catholic High School has a longstanding reputation for academic and extracurricular excellence.
The institution, whose name means “Creator of Great Heroes,” has produced numerous champions in various fields, from academics to arts and sports.
In 2022, the school celebrated 15 national champions in the National Student Competition (KSN), excelling in subjects such as Physics, Biology, Mathematics, Astronomy, and Economics.
In July 2024, Syuradikara continued its dominance by retaining its title as overall champion in the Student Expression Week, outperforming 21 schools in Ende Regency.
Syuradikara’s latest victory in Bangkok has added to its growing legacy. The swimming team’s remarkable performance highlights the school’s commitment to fostering world-class athletes.
Brother Kristianus Riberu, SVD, Principal of the School, expressed immense pride in the students’ achievements.
“We are very grateful for their accomplishments. This is not just a victory for our school but also for Ende Regency and Indonesia as a whole,” he stated during a press conference.
In recognition of their hard work and success, Syuradikara awarded a special scholarship to Abraham Leonard Watik, the gold medalist.
“This proves that the young athletes of Ende have the potential to compete on the international stage,” Brother Kris added.
Call for Better Sports Facilities and Support from Donors and Alumni
Despite their remarkable achievements, the young swimmers have faced challenges due to limited training facilities.
Abraham Leonard Watik, the gold medalist, called on the Ende Regency Government to improve the city’s swimming infrastructure.
“We have had to rely solely on the Reworeke swimming pool, which lacks adequate facilities,” he said.
Teammate Arsenius Madio Juliano Witi echoed the sentiment, noting the stark contrast between their training conditions and those of competitors from other countries.
“We can only train optimally once or twice a week, while they train six days a week with complete amenities,” Witi remarked.
Ribkah Eleonora Valentina, Manager of the Ende Swimming Team, emphasized the importance of investment in sports facilities.
“We have worked hard to bring these children to international competitions. With better support, they can achieve even more,” she said.
Syuradikara Catholic High School continues to instill a champion’s mentality in its students, preparing them for success on both national and international stages.
“Our grand vision is to stay true to our name—producing great heroes who can compete and excel in society,” said Brother Kris.
With an unwavering spirit and strong determination, Syuradikara students are carving their legacy, ensuring that their school remains a beacon of excellence in Indonesia and beyond.
