Isabelle Davies and Paul Dowey
A Pembrokeshire swimmer aged just 11 has qualified for the prestigious British National Swimming Championships this summer in Sheffield.
Isabelle Davies will compete with around 32 of the UK’s best swimmers in each event.
This is the first year she has qualified, and has done so in four events – the 800m freestyle, the 1500m freestyle, the 200m butterfly and the 400m individual medley.
Isabelle has come through the Pembrokeshire Aquatics pathway, learning to swim at Fishguard Leisure Centre, moving to Fishguard Flyers and also attending school swimming at Ysgol Wdig.
She then developed her talent at Fishguard Flyers and is now training with Pembrokeshire County Performance squad.
Currently coached by Paul Dowey, Pembrokeshire leisure’s swimming development coach, Isabelle has also received much valuable coaching from the Fishguard Flyers.
Paul said Isabelle is a talent for the future. “The hard work and input from the volunteer coaches at Fishguard Flyers has undoubtedly given Isabelle a base from which she has been able to achieve her success,” he said.
Two other Pembrokeshire swimmers – Kelsey Williams and Carys Thomas – have also achieved more British National Times and Welsh Regional qualifying standards and will join Isabelle in Sheffield for the competition.
If you are interested in joining a competitive swimming club please contact your local leisure centre. The swimming development clubs in Pembrokeshire are Haverfordwest Seals, Milford Haven Tigers, Pembroke & District, Tenby Dolphins, Fishguard Flyers.
