THIS month was the start of the racing season and members of all squads at Tavistock Swimming Club were putting their training to the test at the Life Centre, Plymouth.

First up was the level three City of Plymouth meet in which an incredible 44 TSC swimmers took part, ranging in age from nine to 40 years-old. Between them, club swimmers claimed 13 bronze, 18 silver and 17 gold medals. Three swimmers qualified for a championship final and competed alongside the seven fastest swimmers in the event. Matthew Hamilton finished in sixth place (100 butterfly), Sarah Teague came second (100 breaststroke) and Hannah Walker won the 100IM race to claim the championship shield.

Last weekend saw a small group of swimmers compete in the level two Lindsay Powell Memorial meet hosted by Exeter Swimming Club. Once again improvements were made and the 15 swimmers gained 38 personal bests, county and regional qualifying times and a collection of medals to take home.

TSC Competition secretary Hazel Walker said: ‘A huge well done to all that have competed this month. It is a fantastic start to the season for some of our newest swimmers experiencing a big venue for the first time and also to those higher level competitors looking to secure county and regional qualification times.’