In recent months, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of classified para swimmers within the Swim England North East Region and the broader UK swimming community. This surge reflects growing interest and participation, as classification events continue to be held across the UK at Regional Para-Swimming Meets. Keith Hall, North East Regional Head Para Coach noted, “If we are to build on the phenomenal successes of the GB Team at World and Paralympic level in recent years, then we need a continuous feed of swimmers entering the system at club level.”
The recent North East/North West Para Championships in Harrogate showcased the growing talent pool, with the event receiving praise for its organisation. “A great deal of thanks should go to Barry Saunders and his team for organising and hosting the event. It was run extremely well, and we are always grateful to those who give up their time to ensure our athletes get the chance to race,” Coach Hall said. Special recognition was also given to Christine Golightly, who returned from officiating at the Paris Paralympics, adding to the prestige of the event.
Standout Performances
The level of competition was high, with many new swimmers making their regional debut and earning medals. Para swimmers from the North East performed particularly well. “All of the swimmers I spoke to had a great afternoon, and racing against peers from the North West added to the experience,” said Coach Hall.
Several athletes to watch as they head into the British Para Winter Nationals include:
- Tia Johnson (S10) – Derwentside & Gateshead Swim Team: Tia, only 12 years old this year, had a fantastic 2023/24 season and is progressing exceptionally well.
- Josie Johnson (S8) – Darlington Swimming Club: Josie recently delivered an impressive 400IM and followed it with a strong 800m Freestyle, marking her as one to watch this season.
- Evie Lambert (S9) – Borough of Kirklees: Evie had an equally stellar season, achieving 697 BDPs in the 100m Freestyle and 629 BDPs in her 200IM at the Harrogate meet.
Room for Improvement
While the event was a success in many ways, Coach Hall emphasised the need to address the relatively low number of participants. Despite an increase in classified swimmers entering the sport, combining two regions still only resulted in 30-40 swimmers. “Swimmers are getting out of one swim and not having the chance to swim down before their next event. At Harrogate, only two females swam the 200m freestyle – not ideal conditions to get the best out of swimmers,” Coach Hall explained.
He also suggested a potential solution to enhance competition: “My suggestion would be to have ‘Zonal’ Championships, combining four to five regions. That way, swimmers would have ample time to prepare between events, and there would be more depth in competition.”
Looking Ahead
With the British Para Winter Nationals in Birmingham fast approaching, swimmers now have the opportunity to take lessons learned from Harrogate and apply them in their preparation. “Late September is a good time to gauge progress after the summer break, and swimmers can refine their performances ahead of November’s Nationals,” Coach Hall noted.
Encouragingly, there has been increased support from clubs and coaches across the North East, recognising the importance of these events for para swimmers’ development. Coach Hall added, “I’m seeing more clubs making the effort to provide coaches, and it’s fantastic to see. This kind of collaboration is key to ensuring our swimmers get the best experience and have the necessary support at these competitions.”
The Swim England North East region continues to develop its para swimming talent, but with increased club support and strategic adjustments to competition formats, the region can further enhance its contributions to GB’s international success.
If any coaches, club officers or parents need any further guidance with Certificates of exemptions, classification or para swimming generally please feel free to drop Coach Keith Hall an email keith@rdasc.org.uk
