Ten PBs, two new PBs, one NB (nosebleed!), one first place and fantastic performances by all swimmers – such were the key moments at Sharley Park LC in Round 2 of the Sports Centre League.
12 girls and 10 boys competed in the warm waters of Clay Cross, in a highly competitive evening of top quality swimming.
The gala got off to a flying start for Portland, with the first five swimmers all achieving a PB. This included Connor, who smashed his previous time in the 100m fly by an almighty 18 seconds. The others in this starting group were Sam and Hannah (100m IM) and Chloe and Stanley (100m back). Stanley’s swim was at a calm and steady pace, turning in third place for the last 25m but gaining all the time to come in second.
As the gala continued, further PBs were recorded by Tilly (50m back), Angelina (50m breast), Bethan (100m breast), Gaby (100 IM) and Connor, who achieved his second PB of the night in the 100m back.
Other highlights:
Dylan, who swam brilliantly to record 2 new times. Despite being only 10, he stepped in for Stanley (after his unfortunate nosebleed incident!) in the 15/u 50m fly.
Sam for swimathon of the night – taking part in an amazing 7 races. This included the second Stanley-substitution in the 13/u 100m IM and a fine race in the 100m breast to finish a strong and clear second.
Congratulations to Esther for a storming first place in the 15/u 50m fly. Starting with a powerful dive, she led all the way and wasn’t in the mood to let anyone pass!
Esther again (open 100m fly) and Rebecca (open 100m free and back) for swimming up age groups.
Luke, who stepped in to swim twice in the closing cannon.
And well done to the rest of the Portland stars for their efforts, with Guy reporting fine form and good technique all round:
Andrew, Alice, Ben, Edward, Emma, Liesje, Liam, Lucy
Thanks to all of the coaches and parents who played a role in the evening, and to the staff and helpers at Sharley Park who were particularly friendly and hospitable (not to mention providing an amazing selection of cakes!).
Log in and go to Swimmers’ Corner Gala News for full results.
