Mount Kelly seal ‘special’ victory to retain National Arena League Cup Final crown

Mount Kelly retained their National Arena League Cup Final title with a convincing ‘special’ victory at the Cardiff International Pool.

Two years after taking top spot in the last final held before the coronavirus pandemic, Mount Kelly’s swimmers triumphed by an impressive 39 points from their nearest challengers Millfield.

The Devon-based boarding school’s strength showed throughout the competition as they secured top three places in 33 of the 42 events and scored 359 points.

They also won the relay challenge trophy, which is the combined time from all eight relay events.

Emma Collings-Barnes, director of swimming at Mount Kelly, said: “This win has given a great buzz for everyone on the team, especially after all the issues around Covid and the lack of racing for so long. 

“I would like to thank all the staff at the school for their support, especially over the last few years, and a special mention to my assistant director of swimming, Greg King-Limb, who has run this programme whilst I have been on maternity leave. 

Great swimmers and clubs

“This competition is so special to win as it involves so many great swimmers and clubs from across the country. 

“Today has been a great sign that swimming for all levels and age groups is back in this country. 

“Thanks to the National League organisers and arena UK for putting together a superb event and running the League rounds through the year.” 

The top Female swimmer of the meet was Plymouth Leander’s Aimee Canny, with her 100m Freestyle time of 55.60. 

Cameron Brooker, Wycombe & District, picked up the male award for his 100m Backstroke time of 56.44. 

Final points

  • 1 Mount Kelly 359
  • 2 Millfield 320
  • 3 Wycombe & District 266
  • 4 Guildford City 261
  • 5 Plymouth Leander 257
  • 6 Bromley 210
  • 7 Hatfield 195
  • 8 Wigan BEST 151
  • 9 Leicester Sharks 147
  • 10 City of Cambridge 142 

Full results can be viewed by clicking here

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