Nation’s young artistic swimmers head to Gloucester for National Age Group Champs

More than 270 artistic swimmers are ready to shine at the Swim England Artistic Swimming National Age Group and Youth Championships 2026. The event makes its energising return to Gloucester’s GL1 Leisure Centre on 7–8 March.

Across two action‑packed days, young competitors will showcase their skill, strength and artistry through solos, duets, teams and compulsory figures, all hoping to make their mark on the national stage.

Special performances from GB stars

Spectators will also be treated to a series of special performances from three of Great Britain’s top artistic swimmers.

On Saturday, Kate Shortman and Isabelle Thorpe will perform their brand-new technical duet, marking the first time they have swum together since claiming their Olympic silver medal at the Paris 2024 Games. The pair’s return to competition is expected to be a major highlight of the weekend.

In addition, Izzy will join Ranjuo Tomblin to showcase the gold‑medal winning free mixed duet that earned them victory at the opening leg of the 2026 World Cup.

However, kicking off the action in Gloucester will be the figures competition, which will see athletes complete four figures that increase in difficulty for each age group (12 & Under and Youth).

The draw for this year’s figures has been confirmed and is as follows:

12 & Under category

Compulsories: Straight Ballet Leg, Barracuda

In addition to the compulsory figures, Group 1 has been selected meaning each swimmer will also be expected to perform:

• Front Ariana
• Tower

Youth category

Group A has been selected meaning each swimmer will be expected to perform:

• Whip Continuous Spin 720
• Saturn
• Venus
• Albatross Spin Up 360

You can find out more about artistic swimming figures here.

A weekend of rising talent

Across all age groups, athletes will be hoping to build on their club seasons and deliver standout performances on the national stage.

For many athletes, this event represents months of training and dedication and for some it may even be the start of their journey towards talent pathways.

Tickets and spectator information are available here. Full schedules and results will be updated throughout the weekend.