Superb effort at meet
On Sunday, December 2, the Benalla Swim club held its annual Long Course meet.
Benalla hosted a number of clubs from the local and surrounding districts, including Shepparton, Kyabram, Cobram, Mooroopna, Finley and Seymour.
This year saw 70 swimmers register to swim in more than 250 events, with 17 swimmers from Benalla.
The club said it was a great atmosphere on the day, with strong performances in the pool.
Benalla had some of its experienced swimmers present, including sisters Maddison and Cassidy Mailer, who were trying to add to their state qualifying events.
Mia Begley put her feet back in the water, with a time of 6:17 in the 400 free, and 1:46 in the 100 breaststroke.
‘‘A number of our 12 and 13 year-olds were aiming to step up and start the chase for Victorian State times or Country Championship qualifying times,’’ Benalla Swimming club president Richard Mailer said.
‘‘These included Liam Kidgell, Brianna Slattery, Ellen Sambell, and Alex Murphy, who swam some great PBs, taking almost 12 seconds off his 50m butterfly time.’’
The club was also excited to have a group of younger swimmers entering their first or second qualifying meet.
These included 10 and 11 year-olds Freya Mount, Braedon Blackford, Jamillia Carey- Smith, Orla Kidgell, Sam Hayes, Lily May, and Albert Moll.
They said it was also great to have Sam Begley and Charles Moll back in the water.
‘‘Overall it was a very successful meet, and many thanks to all the parents and helpers on the day who made it run so smoothly,’’ Mailer said.
‘‘The club was very appreciative of the sponsorship and support provided by Benalla Rural City for the meet.’’
The club welcomes any newcomers who wish to come and try training with the club.
Training for entry-level squad members is on Monday and Wednesday evenings.
For more information or details, phone Richard Mailer on 0429 177 044.
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