The Aquasprint team took the long journey to Ballymena to take part in the the last swim off before the group C final. As the team were in a comfortable position heading into the final next Friday the coaches took the opportunity to allow some of the new swimmers to the club to take part in the Gala. This was a good opportunity for some swimmers who are new to competition to gain valuable experience in the gala setting. The coaches would especially like to thank Niamh and Ryan Mullen and Calum Campbell who took part in their first Aquasprint gala. These swimmers rose to the challenge and hopefully enjoyed the experience. The team travel to Lurgan next Friday to take part in the Group C final. This is a three way final between Sliabh Beagh, Lecale and City of Belfast. This competition will determine the first, second and third place positions.
Good luck everyone!
Busy Gala Weekend in NAC and Bangor
Swimmers took part in the Leinster Division 1 and Bangor Long course competition over the weekend. There was mixed results for swimmers with some swimmers achieving PB’s and others, desired qualifying times. For some there was the frustration of not seeing times moving. It is important at this stage to keep positive and remember that the goal is the Irish Age Group Championships later in the season. Training over the coming weeks will be geared towards this competition with swimmers being prepared both physically and mentally. Training session in the 50m pool will also be included in the preparation for the Division one Championship. Remember as Maya Angelou once said “All great achievements require time” Well done to the following who took part in the Leinster Division one, Conor Comiskey who came first in the 200 Back, 400 free,( Division 1 time) and 1500 freestyle and second in the 100 freestyle. Cillian Mc Gahon, first in the 400IM and Division two time in 100 Breaststroke and 400 freestyle. Claragh Mc Gahon, first in the 200 Back, second in the 200 fly, and third in 800 free and 400IM. Also well done to Colin Gorman who achieved a Division 1 time in the 100 freestyle, also great swims at the weekend from Allison Gorman and Nathan Shields.
Sisters Caoimhe and Caragh Leonard, also enjoyed a successful gala at the Bangor Long Course Meet. Caragh came away with a medal tally of 2 golds, 2 silvers and 2 bronze and showed her versatility across all disciplines, Freestyle, Breaststroke, Backstroke and Individual Medley. Caoimhe was also happy with her performance with additional PB’s and qualifying times for Division 2 Championships.
And finally, congratulations to Sliabh Beagh swimmer Gearoid Coyle who was one of the players in the All Ireland winning soccer team from Scoil Mhuire na mBuachailli, Castleblayney. This competition took place last Wednesday in the Aviva stadium. This was the first time this competition has been won by a Monaghan team.
Well done boys!