TAVISTOCK Swimming Club travelled to Paignton to compete in a friendly gala on Saturday with possibly the smallest team they have fielded - it included only two boys over 12 years of age.
Undeterred by this, the team put on an excellent performance and received vocal encouragement from other team members and club captain Rosie Yull.
The boys had a particularly busy evening with the nine swimmers in a total of 56 races. Due to the lack of older swimmers, many of the squad were swimming up by more than one age group. This was quite noticeable, especially when young Matthew Henry swam in the open - even if he had stood on the starting blocks he would not have reached the height of his opponents, some of whom were over 10 years older! Despite the depleted squad the team came a creditable fourth with Newton Abbot gaining a well-earned first place with 136 points, Paignton second 128 points and Devonport third 118 points and Tavistock 107 points.
In the 15 years and under 100m freestyle, Hattie Sparks gave an impressive performance with a seemingly effortless swim to take first place.
Amy Warnett, Amy McGowan, Rebecca Mills, Matthew Henry, Sam Broome and Nick Jarman also gained individual first places.
Both the girls and boys 11/under relay teams had a successful evening, winning all their events.
Individual personal best times were achieved by Amy Warnett, Will Feather, Katherine Chalmers, Kyle Bayliss, Christopher Ralph, Richard Freedman, Rebecca Mills, Matthew Henry (2), Tamar Preston, Will Crocker, Sam Broome (2), Sophie Ewings, Jessica Barnes, Nick Jarman (2), Philippa Smith and Rachael Kelly.
Other team members: Eve Hellewell, Kyle Langdon, Rosie Yull, Bethan Ayling, Jessica Barnes, Sophie Mc Gowan, Beth Hellewell.
Chief coach Margaret Gardner was delighted with the team's determination and dedication despite the depleted team. The squad's determination was obvious as there were 20 individual personal best times and 36 personal best times in the relays. Any interested in joining the club can contact the chief coach on 01566 783890.