Holly makes big splash by qualifying for national championships
HISTORY was made by local school girl, Holly Curran, as she achieved the qualification standard to represent St John’s RC Primary School at the English Schools’ National Diving Championships.
The Burscough primary school was previously in the headlines for its outstanding academic achievements and being recognised as one of the leading primary schools in the country based on performance. The school can now add sporting excellence to its impressive CV.
Since the competition started in 1949, there has never been a diving primary school representative from North West at this prestigious event - an event which has previously been won by Tom Daley.
Holly won Gold at the ESSA North West Trial, by beating her nearest competitor by over 40 points. Having got off to a shaky start and missing her first dive, a forward 1.5 pike summersault, she quickly recovered on the next 3 dives to secure qualification.
Holly, aged 10, who is also a member of Burscough Diving Cub, took up the sport in 2015 following talent testing carried out by the club.
Since starting she has developed quickly under the guidance of head coach, Carlos Ferra, which has seen her compete at the National Skills Championships and also receive an invitation to attend the Leeds Beacon Programme, the home of Olympic Gold Medallists, Jack Laugher and Chris Mears.
Following achieving the qualification score, Holly will now focus on learning new dives, which will see her increase the degree of difficulty which will hopefully help her achieve success at the championships. Holly will have to be perform at her best, as she will find herself competing against some of the finest diving talent in the county, all of whom who train full time at the elite clubs.
Head Teacher, Mrs Devey commented “We are so proud of Holly at St John’s. Her commitment and dedication to her sport out of school and also her contribution to school within school is exemplary. The staff, pupils and governors wish her all the best.”
The competition will be held in December at the London Aquatics Centre, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.