Young swimmers kick up a storm

A record 16 Pembrokeshire swimmers have been selected for Welsh training squads this year.

Eight swimmers have been picked for the Welsh Skills Squad and seven have been chosen for the Welsh Regional Squad.

The total more than doubles the number of young swimmers picked for last year’s squads.

The Welsh Skills squad is the first rung on the ladder for swimmers wishing to represent their country, while the regional squad is the next step up with swimmers needing to swim within set qualifying times.

“This is wonderful news and testament to the hard work and effort shown by both our young swimmers and their coaches” said Pembrokeshire swimming development coach, Paul Dowey.

“Last year we had six swimmers picked for these squads and the year before that two, so the development pathway we have set up in the County – with swimmers progressing from strong club bases to the county performance squad and beyond – appears to be progressing.”

Swimmers selected for the regional squad are: Michael Hire, Hannah Saunders, Kelsey Williams, Isabelle Davies, Daniel Thomas, Carys Thomas and Hollie Thomas.

Swimmers selected for the Skills Squad are: Jonathan Orchard, Ffion Davies, Amelia Davies, Jordan Harding, Talia Merriman, Ellie Parks, Dan Davies, Oliver Crawford and Daniel Picton

In addition Bethan Davie, originally from Tenby Dolphins and now swimming for Swansea Performance, also qualified for the Welsh Youth Squad.

There are five competitive swimming clubs in the County  – Haverfordwest Seals, Milford Haven Tigers, Pembroke & District, Tenby Dolphins and Fishguard Flyers.

Anyone interested in joining a club should contact their local leisure centre.

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