Stars of the future to compete at National Junior Para-swimming Championships

Potential ‘stars of the future’ are set to take part in the Activity Alliance’s National Junior Para-swimming Championships.

More than 100 young swimmers will be competing in the event at the Sunderland Aquatics Centre on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 March.

The popular event is seen as the starting block for national competitions for many swimmers and top world and Paralympic medallists have competed at the championships in the past.

Swimmers aged between 10 and 18 years old will compete in short course freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, individual medley and butterfly races.

One of the competitors, Poppy, an S14 para-swimmer from Alsager Swimming Club, said: “I’m looking forward to the championships.

“My training has been going great. I love racing and I want to get some personal bests and medals.

“I’ve been to a British swimming camp where I have improved on my dives. This is one of my main goals for the event.”

Barry Horne, Activity Alliance’s chief executive, said: “We’re delighted to put on this event for so many young para-swimmers.

“As we look to the Tokyo Paralympic Games in the summer, it is crucial new young talent is able to develop in every sport.

Fantastic event

“We want to increase the chances for those gold-winning moments but also drive the wider benefits of being active.

“These Championships are a testament to the amount of work delivered at grassroots level that introduces new swimmers and grows participation.

“We’re proud to once again be bringing the event to Sunderland this year – our thanks go to Swim England, SOS and Sunderland City Council for their support.”

Jane Nickerson, Swim England chief executive, said: “We’re proud to be working in partnership with the Activity Alliance to make the National Junior Para-Swimming Championships possible.

“This is a fantastic event and gives so many youngsters the opportunity to take part in competitive races.

“The Paralympics in August will be a huge inspiration to many of those swimming at these championships and who knows, we may see some of the stars of the future in action this weekend.

“We hope that everyone taking part – and those who are cheering them on – have a memorable time.”

Start lists and results will be available on the Activity Alliance website during the championships – and you can follow the event through social media with the hashtag  #JuniorParaSwim20.

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