For the first time the Devon County Championship 1500m freestyle event took place as a long course event at the Life Centre, Plymouth as part of the South West Region time trials. Tavistock Swimming Club had three swimmers competing in this major gala.

James Anderson, aged 15, swam a well-paced race to produce even splits. His good swim earned him an excellent fourth place in the Devon age-group category, as well as seventh place in the region time trial.

Kieran Rookes was competing in his first Devon long distance 1500m freestyle event and, as a sprint specialist, he says it is his last! He found the experience challenging but he was rewarded with a superb first place in the 16 years and over Devon age-group category.

Matt Edwards, who recently gained his national qualifying time in this event, raced in the highly competitive final heat. Four swimmers from different clubs around the region went out from the start almost in a straight line across the pool, with just tenths of seconds covering the four swimmers. Matt kept his nose just in front for most of the first half of the race but from 750m he eased away. to win the time trial. The win ensured that Matt was crowned the Devon County 1500m champion, having won by over 15 seconds from his nearest Devon challenger, a superb accolade for him,

Tavistock Swimming Club and the club's new head coach, James Lake said: 'The guys were really tested, the first competition of the year and we are off to some fantastic results. Hoping this is a sign to say things are going really well!

If you are interested in joining Tavistock Swimming Club visit the Tavistock swimming club website http://www.tavsc.co.uk">www.tavsc.co.uk