Tavistock swimmers struck gold at the Devon Masters Championships with numerous medals to mark their success.

Veteran Tavistock Swimming Club member Sam Lake scooped five gold medals at the meet at Plymouth Life Centre on Sunday, September 6.

Sam, a Tavistock Primary School teacher, said: “The first gala of the season saw some of the club’s senior swimmers head to the Plymouth Life Centre to compete in the Devon Masters Championships, returning with an impressive collection of medals and strong early-season performances.”

Sam enjoyed a successful day, taking gold in all five of her events, the 50m, 100m, 200m and 400m freestyle, as well as the 100m individual medley.

She said: “Despite a hectic week and little opportunity to taper, my times were close to my masters personal bests, including a solid swim in the 400m freestyle.

“I’m glad I decided to race. A few first-race nerves for the 400 freestyle, but a solid swim and not too far away from my masters PB of 4 minutes 58 seconds.

“The rest of the races followed a similar pattern, with times around my masters bests, which I really can’t complain about given the preparation.

“A lovely day of racing, catching up with everyone and, as always, grateful to still be able to get out there and enjoy competing.

“A fantastic start to the season for the club. Well done to Jacob, Sam, Charlotte and Richard, and a big thank you to TSC member Caroline, who supported the competition as an official.”

Charlotte Walker claimed gold in both the 200m and 400m freestyle and finished fourth in the 50m and 100m freestyle.

Club coach Jacob Cacchione won the 50m and 100m backstroke, alongside silver medals in the 50m freestyle and 50m butterfly, while Richard Staniland took gold in the 100m freestyle and silver in the 50m freestyle.