Sussex results show it's going swimmingly for Cormorants

Each club competing enter two swimmers for every event - a challenge for most clubs - and Chichester rose to the challenge with some outstanding swimming, showing passion and determination raising valuable points for the club and lowering many personal-best times.

The Cormorants have undergone many changes in recent years, but a motivated and inspired squad competed, ranging from the youngest under-12 age group through to the masters, namely Lisa Maynard, Kerrin Cruttenden and Darren Sims, who offered support and experienced mentoring to the squad, particularly those were competing in their first-ever gala.

There was a friendly yet competitive atmosphere at the event and every swimmer in the squad gave 100 per cent, achieving several first places and personal-best times.

Special mention goes to Sara Perruzzo ,who despite an injury and a heavily-strapped shoulder, produced excellent swims in both her individual and relay events. Another outstanding swimmer was under-14 Bella Powell, who tirelessly swam many events including the demanding open ladies’ 100m fly.

Other swimmers who stood out on the night were Joseph Barnett, Joe Jones, Ed Richardson, Josh Thomas, Elizabeth Brown, Molly Whatmore, Bethany Catchpole and Jemima Laurence, who swam with grit and determination.

Both the under-12 girls and boys’ relay teams were exceptional with good starts, turns and finishes.

The highlight of every gala is the squadron, which is exciting and noisy with most swimmers and supporters on their feet.

Chichester finished a well-deserved second with the last leg being swum without the swimmer lifting his head for a breath.

This event was evidence Chichester Cormorants are a young, vibrant swimming club offering opportunities to the young and not-so-young who are interested in swimming competitively.

Chichester Cormorants are all-inclusive so if you are interested in joining, there is a trial session this Sunday (March 3) at Westgate Leisure. If you are interested and would like more information please contact the coaching team at [email protected]