Bellshill Sharks Flourish at West District Championships - Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th September 2023
SASA West District Age Group & Relay Championships
Tollcross
The Sharks kicked off the 1st West Districts Meet of the new season with a fantastic performance at the WD Age Group & Relay Championships held at Tollcross on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th September 2023. With 35 swimmers representing the club, the team showcased their talent and determination, resulting in an impressive tally of 79 personal bests over the weekend.
Each session was rounded off with exciting team relay events, adding an extra layer of excitement and camaraderie to the competition. There were excellent performances and teamwork throughout.
Saturday 9th:
The first day of the competition saw several Bellshill Sharks swimmers making their way into finals. Notably, Ethan Collins, made a significant impact, earning a gold medal in the 100m backstroke and a silver medal in the 100m freestyle in the boys' 14-year-old category.
The 13-15 year old Boys 4x50 Medley Relay Team secured a silver medal in an outstanding performance. The team, comprising Caleb Geddes on backcrawl, Ethan Collins on breaststroke, Callum Struzik on fly, and Ruben Pearson on freestyle, showcased their exceptional talents with strong and synchronized performances. Their impressive efforts propelled them to a well-deserved silver medal, earning praise and recognition for their dedication and teamwork.
A special mention to the 11–12-year-old girls 200m free relay team who triumphed in a thrilling heats victory – well done to sisters Charlotte and Isabella Shanks and teammates Alana Redpath and Sophie Haining!
While a few Sharks narrowly missed out on podium places, the team's spirit remained high, and their dedication was evident throughout the day.
Swimmers securing places in the finals:
100m Fly:
- Boys 15 years: Caleb Geddes and Ruben Pearson
- Girls 15 years: Millie Barton
- Girls 17 & Over: Ceri Sinnet
100m Free:
- Girls 11-12 years: Rebecca Maling
- Boys 14 years: Ethan Collins and Aaron Russell
100m IM:
- Boys 15 years: Ruben Pearson, Caleb Geddes, and Logan McDonald
- Girls 15 years: Millie Barton
100m Breast:
- Boys 15 years: Logan McDonald
- Girls 15 years: Alannah Wilson and Millie Barton
100m Back:
- Boys 13 years: Logan Moffitt
- Boys 14 years: Ethan Collins and Aaron Russell
Sunday 10th:
On Sunday, the Bellshill Sharks ASC geared up for another day of exhilarating competition.
Ethan Collins clinched the gold medal in both the 14 year old boys 100m Fly and the 100m IM events and secured a bronze medal in the 100m Breaststroke. Congratulations to Ethan Collins for his outstanding performance!
The Sharks continued to make waves with their remarkable relay performance in the 11-12 year old girl 4x50 Mixed Medley Relay. The team, consisting of Charlotte Shanks, Sophie Haining, Alana Redpath, and Rebecca Maling, showcased exceptional teamwork and talent, earning them a well-deserved silver medal.
The 13-15 year old Boys 4x50m Free Relay Team, comprising Ethan Collins, Logan McDonald, Aaron Russell and Ruben Pearson delivered a fantastic performance, earning them a well-deserved bronze medal.
Swimmers who reached finals:
100m Fly:
- Boys 11-12: Kieran Naismith
- Girls 11-12: Rebecca Mailing and Sophie Haining
- Boys 14 years: Ethan Collins, Aaron Russell, and Callum Struzik
100m Free:
- Boys 15 years: Ruben Pearson
100m IM:
- Boys 11-12: Kieran Naismith
- Girls 11-12: Rebecca Maling
- Boys 13 years: Logan Moffitt
- Boys 14 years: Ethan Collins
100m Breast:
- Girls 11-12: Sophie Haining
- Boys 11-12: Kieran Naismith
- Boys 13 years: Logan Moffitt
- Boys 14 years: Ethan Collins
100m Back:
- Boys 15 years: Ruben Pearson and Caleb Geddes
- Girls 17&O: Lara Brown
The Sharks displayed determination, enthusiasm and competitive spirit making their presence felt in these finals. The club's commitment to excellence and the hard work of its athletes were evident throughout the competition. Congratulations to all the finalists on their impressive performances!
As the season continues, the team looks forward to more exciting performances, with high hopes for further success.
More photos:
