Despite being one of the smaller swimming clubs in the country, its size has not constrained its success. Just last season the club enjoyed one of its best seasons on record which saw the club pick up 11 first and 11 third places at the Devon County ASA Championships, Ben Gittens and Megan Bowen both competed at the ASA National Age Group Championships with Megan winning Gold. ‘Superstar of the future’ Megan Bowen (14) also took part in the Olympic Trials at the Olympic Park, whilst Harriet Tuck won silver in the annual Plymouth Breakwater Swim.
Emma Richards, Chair of Dinnaton Swimming Club, raved about their recent achievements:
“Dinnaton Swimming Club isn’t the biggest club in the South West, but we strive to become the best. With the success of the Olympics and the fantastic public response to Team GB swimmers we’re hoping to see an influx of eager young swimmers wanting to join over the next few months.”
“The appeal of our club is that we’re open to everyone, from youngsters as young as four-and-a-half through to senior citizens. Whether you’re looking for a form of exercise or hoping to compete against some of the leading swimmers in the county or even country, we have a swimming team to cater for you.”
“Once our members have reached a certain level of competency, they can progress through our 4 squad system where the top two squads are at a competitive standard. Our A squad train up to 16 hours a week at our main pool at Dinnaton and take advantage of our two 2 hour sessions a week at Plymouth Life Centre’s 50m pool – one of only two facilities of its kind in the region.”
“We’re a small, friendly, close-knit swimming club that has turned into more of a family over the years. The dedication of our volunteer coaches and commitment of our swimmers is a true testament to the success of our club. It’s certainly going to be an exciting season ahead.”
Taking the ‘family’ claim quite literally, over the summer one of the club’s actual families – the Bramleys – competed at the National Biathle Finals at Salford Quays, Manchester. In their respective age categories, Dad Mark came 3rd, son Travis (13) came 2nd and daughter Aagaen (10) achieved 10th place in the Girls’ Under 13 years’ category. Mark and Travis have now both qualified for the World Championships to be held in Dubai in November.
Dinnaton Swimming Club train predominantly at McCaulay’s Fitness and Golf Centre in Ivybridge. Further information about the club and its training can be found at www.dinnatonswimming.co.uk
