The Hereford Times

Swimmers get year off to a good start

12:47pm Thursday 28th February 2008

CITY of Hereford Swimming Club have performed creditably at three open meets.

Swimmers were grouped accordingly and sent to competitions that challenged them.

The top squad took to fierce waters at Millfield, where they were challenged by some of the country's hottest prospects.

Fine performances from many of the 23-strong squad helped the club take 8th place out of 25.

A collection of county and regional times were also achieved.

Each swimmer took part in most of events and the weekend also provided the opportunity to clock up some fast times prior to the Worcester County Championships.

A second group of age group swimmers were sent to Wolverhampton for the Stourbridge Open.

They too swam hard and clocked up new personal best times.

A recruitment programme has also allowed the club to send its first batch of 9/Under rising stars to Pontardawe, Wales, for a friendly sprint meet.

Swimmers as young as seven years old took part.

Coach Matt Puddy said: "The whole month has provided a new year wake-up call. It will help prepare the swimmers better for up-and-coming competitions."