News City of Belfast Swimmers lay down early season markers 13/10/2009 Friday the 2nd October saw the start of Swim Ulster’s three day graded galas, one of five to be held throughout the season. To qualify and compete in these meets is the first step on the competition ladder, allowing a swimmer to gain qualifying times for the Ulster Age Group Championships in May 2010. Friday evening was dedicated to the distance Freestyle races. The Junior squad swimmers started the gala with some amazing times as these events were new to all of them. Robert McDowell took the bronze in the 12&U 1500m. This was followed by gold for Carla Morelli in the 11&U 800m. Hanna Beattie and Christina McDowell made it gold and silver respectively in the 10&U 800m. The first session on Saturday morning was busy with all eleven swimmers from the Junior and Academy squads taking part in a range of events. Hanna Beattie picked up a bronze 10&U 100m Freestyle. This was followed by Ellen O Neil and Sophie Hunter winning silver and bronze respectively in the 10&U 50m Breaststroke. The afternoon session saw a reversal of fortunes when Christina McDowell took Bronze in the 10&U 100m Backstroke after coming a close 4th in the 100m Freestyle. All swimmers had outstanding results with a total of 36 swims and 29 personal best times, some of which showed a massive improvement on previous performances. These are fantastic results for so early in the season. The next Graded Gala is only two weeks away, and as I am away only some of the Junior Squad will take part. The next time trial is on the 1st November for the Academy and Junior squad so work hard and let’s get more PBs. Many thanks to all the parents who helped at the gala. Without timekeepers we could not run these events. COB are always looking for new faces to take up the stopwatch so give it a go at the next time trial you may enjoy it. Your continued support is much appreciated. DS 10th October 2009.