“Dear OTS
Thanks for being so welcoming at the Middlesex County Championships on Saturday. Your website says “We welcome all adults with an interest in aquatic sport” and I can vouch for the veracity of this. You’re a truly warm, inclusive group with lovely members. You were considerate to newbies Di and myself and supportive and encouraging to one another as well. Saturday was daunting and scarey but your warmth, thoughtfulness and kindness made it an enjoyable and super experience. Thanks a million. Much love.
Jean XX”
The women had a brilliant turn out of 9 swimmers in total, with special mentions going to Jean Beesley and Di Xu who were competing for the first time. Overall there were lots of great swims and we were well represented across the events.
Highlights included Oonagh finishing 13 seconds faster than her entry time on the 200 freestyle, whilst Steph, Zuzana and Tali took a clean sweep of medals in the same event for the 25-29 age group. Laura finished over a second ahead of the competition on the 50 backstroke, taking gold in the 30-34 age group, while Jean took bronze in the 60-64.
Everyone performed fantastically in the relays with the 100+ and 200+ teams taking 1st and 4th places respectively in both the medley and the free. Special thanks to Titta who jumped in at the last moment, making it possible for the 200+ medley relay to go ahead! Congratulations also go to Tali and Vicki who helped the 160+ medley team bring in bronze.
Overall the women came in 4th with 114 points, well ahead of 5th on 67 points. Everyone was as supportive as ever, which made for a great atmosphere on poolside. Thank you to everyone who competed, and let's see if we have even more women in the pool next time!
It was a close finish for our Men’s team, with only 3 points separating us from Camden at halftime, but with some strong relay swims as well as a great turnout from Development Squad saw us retain the Top Club trophy for the third year running.
With it being so tight for the title every swim was crucial. Edmond battled through a goggle-less 100 IM to ensure his points counted, whilst David, Pablo and Waddaah took their first swimming medals home.
Most of all it was great to see our more experienced swimmers take our newbies under their team wing helping and encouraging them along the way. It’s a great competition for first-timers as well as old pro’s. With only 2 months until Paris things are looking promising!!
Steph and Andrew
Race Captains
