End of a Season, Start of a New Era

The 2008/09 season came to an end on 1st and 2nd August with the Swindon Dolphin End of Season Open Meet at the Link Centre.

With the meet now spread over two days, there was more opportunity for swimmers to compete to the best of their ability over more events.  With 146 swimmers from 18 clubs competing in the level 4 meet, competition was fierce across all age groups.  Exceeding the “no faster than” entry time on three occasions was Dolphin’s Niall Westman with older brother Cathal Westman and teammate Liam Herbert both beating the clock twice.  Top Dolphin medallists were Megan Jones with 11 gold and James Clark with 8.  There were also strong performances from visiting clubs, with Lincoln Vulcans’ James Hurley achieving 12 gold medals from 12 events entered and Salisbury’s Clare Southon twice going under the “no faster than” entry times.

With the vast majority of swims producing personal best swims and many well within County and Regional qualifying standards, the forthcoming year is looking promising for Dolphin as they head into the new season.  With the recent departure of former Chief Coach Andi Manley and Swimming Development Officer Steve Cryer, the Milton Road based club look set to enter a new era as Louise Clayton takes the helm as Chief Coach.  Previously Acting Head Coach with The City of Glasgow Swim Team, Louise will be looking to continue to build on the success of all aspects of Swindon Dolphin; from it’s Learn to Swim, Age Group and Youth Programmes, through to Seniors, Masters and Water Polo.

Full results from the End of Season Open Meet are available on the competition page.