Ashford School Swimmers Shine at National Championships
Ashford School’s swimming team delivered outstanding performances at two prestigious national events recently, demonstrating their talent, dedication, and progress on a national stage.
Aleiya’s Medal Haul at British Junior Para National Championships
Aleiya led the swim ‘charge’ with an impressive three-medal winning performance at the British Junior Para National Championships in Coventry, building on her bronze medal from last year. Her results cemented her status as one of the country’s top young para-swimmers:
- Silver in the 400m Freestyle, with a remarkable 15-second personal best (PB)
- Bronze in the 100m Freestyle
- Bronze in the 100m Backstroke
Aleiya’s growing medal tally and consistent improvement mark her as a rising star to watch in the sport.
IAPS National Finals at London’s Olympic Pool
Meanwhile, Ashford’s team competed at the IAPS National Finals at the iconic Olympic pool in London, achieving a string of impressive PBs and securing places in three finals. The team faced fierce competition from some of the UK’s top swimming schools, including Millfield, Mount Kelly, and Repton, yet held their own with notable performances:
- Dexter (U12 50m Butterfly) entered ranked 10th but smashed his PB by three seconds in the heats to reach the final. He narrowly missed a bronze medal by just 0.04 seconds, finishing a thrilling fourth.
- Rohan (U13 50m Butterfly) placed sixth, improving his time by over half a second.
- Hermione (U13 50m Backstroke) took ninth, shaving more than a second off her entry time.
- The U13 boys’ relay teams (Medley and Freestyle) dropped seven and five seconds respectively, finishing ninth in both events, just a few seconds shy of getting onto the podium.
Team Line-Up:
- Dexter – U12 50m Fly
- Rohan – U13 50m Fly, Medley & Freestyle relays
- Hayley – U11 50m Backstroke
- Will – U12 50m Backstroke
- Hermione – U13 50m Backstroke
- Leo – U13 50m Breaststroke
- Ginevra – U10 50m Freestyle
- Zara – U13 50m Freestyle
- Harry – U13 Medley & Freestyle relays
A Testament to Hard Work
Robin Frances, Director of Swimming, praised the team’s achievements: “Our results across last weekend highlight the growth, inclusivity and diversity of Ashford School Swimming. To support and witness our swimmers medal and PBs at National and British level is testament to the hard work they put in year-round. Aleiya is proving that she is one to watch as her medal tally and repertoire grow each year. Well done to all!”
These remarkable performances reflect the strength and potential of Ashford School’s swimming programme, setting an exciting tone for the season ahead. Congratulations to all our swimmers!