News

In this morning's action at the British Championships in Manchester, Lewis Smith recorded his second PB of the meet in the semi-finals of the men's 200 backstroke as he comfortably progressed to the final which takes place tomorrow morning.  His time of 2:04.57 was 0.2 faster than his heat PB and sets him up nicely to challenge for a medal in what promises to be a competitive race.  Later in the day, Smith looked very controlled as he progressed in third place to the men's 400 IM final with a solid heat swim of 4:25.33.

Fiona Booth had a busy morning.  After progressing through the semi-finals of the women's 50 freestyle in 27.23, she went faster in the final itself, stopping the clock at 27.09 for 7th place in an event which holds great promise for the future for Booth.  A few minutes later, she was then back in action for the women's 4 x 200 freestyle relay.  Led off by Katelyn Stewart (2:12.71), Fiona swam the fastest leg going second (2:09.50) and was followed by Helen McRoberts (2:10.87) and Rosie Hood (2:21.12) as the team placed 7th overall.

Earlier, Katelyn swam a 28.07 for 8th place in the junior final of the women's 50 freestyle, while Helen swam 2:27.27 for 6th place in the women's 200 IM junior final.  In the semi-finals of the men's 200 backstroke Lewis Smith was joined by Billy Purnell (2:06.59) and Andrew Haslett (2:10.22) but unfortunatley neither could progress to the final with Lewis.

Billy and Andrew also lined up for the heats of the men's 400 IM and were joined there by Ewan Johnston.  Sadly though, despite good efforts all round, none of the boys could find their best form and secure a second swim.  Billy recorded 4:34.80, Ewan 4:42.83 and Andrew swam 4:43.08.

The meet concludes tomorrow morning with Lewis going for medals in the finals of the 200 backstroke and 400 IM, plus also teaming up with Billy, Andrew and Ewan for the men's 4 x 200 freestyle relay.