A squad of 23 members of Heanor swimming Club recently competed at this two-day weekend event in Ponds Forge Pool in Sheffield, which was organised by RLSS – The Royal Lifesaving Society.

Most members of that squad are shown in the accompanying photo.

This was one of a series of National events open to competitors from throughout the UK to test and prove their lifesaving skills in timed events, and HSC members in ages ranging from 12 years to age 60+ masters took part. Individual, pairs and team events included relays, manikin tow, rescue rope throw etc., compared to those of straight speed swimming as seen in most swimming galas.

Top-level performances at such competitions often result in the opportunity to train with the RLSS UK Lifesaving Squad, which competes in such events at International and World Championship level.

Commitment by HSC members and their coaches resulted in a total of nine medals during the weekend, being six bronze and three silvers, most of which came during the rope-throwing events.
HSC Medal recipients included:- Charlotte Butterworth, Emily Reddington, Jayne Stallion, Georgia Longden-Morley, Emma Wood, Emma Thornley and Chloe French.

Unsurprisingly, almost all HSC competitors gave PB (personal best) performances, spurred on by their supporters, and the fantastic atmosphere within the 50M pool facility.

Moreover, within the HSC medal performances were world qualifying times for four members of the open team, and two team world-qualifying times.

Once all results of the weekend were collated, it emerged that Jayne Stallion’s overall result of fourth place in the under 18 age-group, and highest placed Derbyshire competitor, should ensure her continued training with the UK Lifesaving Squad.

Club Chairman, Ian Butterworth, commented “We are delighted that the hard work of our members and their coaches has resulted in these medals and timings which reflect further growth and development of HSC as a club at National level”

If you are interested in joining or learning more about this local active swimming and lifesaving club contact the membership secretary Ginene Mason on Mobile 07855 222169 or visit the club website at www.heanorswimmingclub.org