Cundall Swimmers make a big splash at finals.

A TEAM OF SWIMMERS from Cundall Manor School made a big splash competing at the English Schools National Swimming Finals.

The swimmers from the school were one of three teams who qualified to represent the North East region, in the Team Medley competition at the National Finals.

Racing last Saturday at Ponds Forge, Sheffield, they lined up against 24 of the best school teams from across England.

For three members of the five-strong team, appearing at the English Schools Swimming Association National Team Finals, was the first time that they had competed at such a large arena, with huge cheering crowds.

The event opened with the singing of the National Anthem before the Captains of each school team paraded around the Olympic sized pool.  There were more than 500 swimmers taking part in the competition.

Cundall Manor Swim Captain, Minnie Pollock, 11 said, “being Captain and taking part in the team parade was exciting as there were so many people watching.”

With live commentary throughout the races, the Y6 pupil spoke of how inspiring the event was, “it was an amazing experience to take part in a national event, it was such a great atmosphere.”

Minnie, who swam the freestyle leg of the mixed team relay, was joined by her Y6 classmates Pippa Bentley, and Izzy Faris-Wilson, and Y5 boys, Otto Cockroft, and Oscar Fenby.

Jo Pollock, who coaches the school squad said, “It was a great achievement for Cundall Manor School to be representing the North East of England at the national relay championships.  They swam very well, all swimming faster than their qualifying round in March.

“They were in a very fast heat and held their own, just being touched out into 7th position and coming 21st overall.  We have come home with some incredible, new PB times and a great experience to build on and learn from.”