Swimmers make splash to raise cash for charities
ASHBOURNE & District Swimming Club managed to complete a Swimathon 5K that was originally planned for March.
Overall, 31 swimmers took part in their training bubbles, with swimmers aged 8-16 set targets starting from 1km each to complete within the session.
All targets were met, raising £865 for Cancer Research UK and Marie Curie.
Edie Hambleton, Ellie Torpey and George Robinson raised over £100 individually.
The youngest swimmers were set a target of 1km, which is 40 lengths, and some managed 64, which is a mile.
Max Goddard was the first to complete his 1km in only 24 minutes and went on to do 76 lengths in total.
As well as Max, Lewis White, Jacob Brown, Rose Davies and Bella Carolan swam over a mile.
The next group’s target was 1.3km (55 lengths) and the highest achievers were Oscar Caton swimming 80 lengths (2km) and Connie Howe swimming 78.
Isabella Margiotta, Elena Andrews, Ellie Torpey, Imogen Scotcher and Keira Lee all swam over 100 lengths, while Ellie swam 3.4km.
Coach Sheila Haswell said: “They demonstrated really good focus and determination.
“Some swimmers overcame serious anxiety and lack of confidence about completing the swim but did so with style.”
Club chair Vicky Scotcher added: “It has been hard work getting back in the water swimming since Ashbourne Leisure Centre did not reopen initially when lockdown restrictions were lifted.
“The club started training at Belper Leisure Centre before moving back to Ashbourne this month.
“The club has seen great enthusiasm and support from our members who continue to do us proud.”