Eleanor Bainbridge triumphs for fourth straight gold

Eleanor Bainbridge claimed her fourth National Open Water Festival age group title after triumphing in the 15 Years Girls race.

The Royal Wolverhampton School swimmer has added another gold medal to her collection after previously winning the 12 Years, 13 Years and 14 Years titles.

She clocked 39:17 to win by 35 seconds from Grimsby’s Lucy Woodliffe (39:52) and 42 seconds ahead of Guildford’s Isobel Bryant, who took the bronze medal in 39:59.

Eleanor said: “I’m pleased because I’ve had a tough season.

“I thought this year was going to be quite tough but I went in there with my head held high hoping for the best. I’m really happy.

“This is most I have won by. My first win was by 10 seconds but it has been closer and closer each year. It was quite a shock there was such a big difference.

“I’ll definitely be back next year to try and make it five.”

Ella Dyson goes from fourth to gold

A year ago, Ella Dyson suffered the disappointment of missing out on a podium place as she finished fourth.

But she made up for it in the 14 Years Girls 3K race as she triumphed by 20 seconds to be crowned national champion.

The Wycombe District swimmer clocked 39:07 to finish ahead of City of Birmingham’s Millie Checkley (39:27) and Grimsby’s Evie Barber (39.44)

Ella said: “The race went well and I’m really happy.

“The sun came out while I was swimming and I enjoyed myself. I just tried to hold my pace, keep it steady and get out in front and it worked well.

“Once out in front, I could enjoy it a little bit. I was fourth last year so it was nice to go even better. I wasn’t really expecting a medal, just tried my best. To come first is amazing.”