Sharks trio show plenty of bite in first national open event

A TRIO of Stratford Sharks swimmers shone in their first attempt at the National Open Water Championships at Sheffield’s Rother Valley Country Park.

Robin Hughes, Felix Gallagher and Seren Mahon had all qualified for the prestigious event after progressing from the Midlands Open Water Championships in June.

Hughes and Gallagher took part in the 3k race, while Mahon was in the 5k. Gallagher was first to swim in the boys’ 15 years race, finishing an excellent 13th in a time of 40.23.

Hughes was next up in the boys’ 16 years contest, claiming 17th in 39.52 despite some heavy rain.

Mahon completed a hat-trick of superb Sharks performances, claiming 16th in the girls’ 17/18 year age group in 1.10.09.

Coach, Yvonne Caswell, was proud of her swimmers’ efforts in what was their first national open water event. “It’s a very different experience from competition swimming in the pool,” she said.

“Brutal but energising is how I’d describe it.”