ONE of the most hotly-contested swimming competitions in Norfolk is the junior league for swimmers between the ages of nine to 12 years, and each year clubs within the county compete for the Copeman and Christine Clark Cups.

ONE of the most hotly-contested swimming competitions in Norfolk is the junior league for swimmers between the ages of nine to 12 years, and each year clubs within the county compete for the Copeman and Christine Clark Cups.

This year Norwich Swan Swimming Club (pictured above) participated in the first round at Thetford, and by the end of the gala they finished second on 120 points, which earned them a place in the A Final, again at Thetford.

Once again consistency of performance was the key to success with 17 personal best times from 26 swims, an overall figure of 65 per cent.

Among the most notable swimmers were Matthew Long (two PBs); Fraser Ellis (two PBs); and Bethany Willrich (two PBs). Bethany further proved her form with two wins in the 10 years 25m butterfly and the 50m freestyle, while her sister, Melissa, recorded one PB and two wins in the 12 years 50m butterfly and freestyle.

One month later it was back to Thetford, this time for the A Final, and on this occasion Swan increased their points total to 125 and ended the night in fourth position, a significant improvement from sixth place last year on a 92-point total.

Once again Bethany Willrich did the business with a first in the 10 years 25m butterfly and a second in the 50m freestyle.

Sophie Foster, who featured in the county championships earlier in the year, took second in the 11 years 50m freestyle and first in the 50m breaststroke.

After three successful galas the moral in the Swan club is excellent, especially as a high percentage of swimmers have produced significant improvements, with more to come no doubt.

If you would like information on Norwich Swan Swimming Club contact Christine Bedder on 01603 700196.