Hibbott found it hard to keep selection secret

Holly Hibbott says the hardest part of being selected for Team England’s Commonwealth Games squad was keeping the announcement quiet.

The 18-year-old from Southport, who swims for Stockport Metro, was one of the first swimmers originally announced in the team in October last year.

• DOB: 13/12/1999
• Club: Stockport Metro
• Coach: Sean Kelly
• CWG: Making debut at Gold Coast 2018

She enjoyed a successful 2017, winning a gold medal in the 800m Freestyle at the Swim England National Winter Championships in December.

Hibbott also set a lifetime best of 8:30.66 to reach the 800m Free final on her World Championship debut in Budapest.

But it was having to keep her Commonwealth Games selection a secret which proved to be difficult.

Hibbott said: “I found at the first selection in September – it was really exciting but we had to keep it quiet for a little bit which was quite hard because you want to tell your friends and family.

“I’m really looking forward to going to Australia. My friends and family are really excited for me.

Pressure off over winter

“I didn’t know if I was going to be picked because it was first selection but it took a bit of pressure off the December meet.

“It’s my first time competing for England. It’s been useful to get to know people before heading to Australia. I really like my coaching group so I’m really looking forward to it.

“My family have been a massive support over the last few years. My dad used to drive me up and down the motorway so I could swim at Stockport so I owe a massive thanks to him and all my coaches.”