Ashton scoop a record number of medals at Greater Manchester Championships

Swimmers from Ashton Under Lyne Swimming Club recently competed in the Greater Manchester Swimming Championships held at the Life Centre, Wigan earlier this month.

The big numbers tell the story of increasing numbers competing, with faster swims and more medals. Ashton’s 20 swimmers performed in 93 events and swam an amazing 51 personal best times. The team brought home a record 14 medals with three swimmers becoming Greater Manchester Champions.

The most improved performer was undoubtedly Jake Wood. Jake won the 50m Breaststroke and collected two silver medals and a bronze, with all of his 8 swims done in personal best times. Other winners were Lyra Holmes and Noah Blemmings. Lyra, who swam a lifetime best to beat all-comers in 50m freestyle and, in his first major competition, Noah won the 50m Butterfly. The other Ashton medallists were Ben Haughton who bagged himself five medals (one silver and four bronze and 2 PBs) and Ryan Coulthard (three silver also 2 PBs).

There was a host of swimmers competing for the first time at this level and they all managed to rise to the occasion. Kyle-Jai Mistry, Adam Boukhchem and Scarlett Cornwell had 5 personal best swims each and Scarlett Fagan had 4. Swimmers who had 3 PBs were: Amy Leigh Shepley and Lucy Pyatt. Other swimmers who put a shift in were: Callum Shaw (2 PBs), Amy Foote (2), Mia Grayson (2), Lois Davies (2), Ben Robson (1), Sophie Kershaw (1), Lucy Green (1), Jessica Birch (1) and Aimee Dean (8th place).

Once again the team had a great team spirit and our swimmers supported each other throughout the championship. Our youngsters, who are new to this level of competition, showed they are not out of place and could well be ready to step up to be future champions. Watch this space.

By Colin Holmes