swimstu73's blog

The largest Masters team (in recent times) to compete at the Wiltshire County Masters returned home from Trowbridge with 19 medals (7 gold, 6 silver and 6 bronze). 

Making their debuts in Masters events were Heather Knight (2S,2B), Michael Edmundson (1G, 2S), Sean Browne (1B) and Ben Bridgeman (1S,2B) - all rising to the challenge and enjoying the more relaxed atmosphere.

Not to be outdone, the 'experienced' swimmers carried on their rich vein of form.

The final round of the Wiltshire Masters for 2009 saw the usual suspects (Nikki, Andy and Stuart) make the long trip to Salisbury for 5 events (well, the lazy amoung us only did 3!!!)

Good results made the journey worthwhile.
Nikki claimed gold and county records in her 3 events.
Andy amassed 4 golds and a bronze - narrowly missing out on county records in 3 events.
Stuart gained 1 gold and 4 silvers - but more importantly was not disqualified in any of his races.

Shorter distance - similar results.
There was much stronger competition with over 80 swimmers on the night.
Paul Bacon won the Over 40s (possibly with a new County record to go with his 3km record) with Sean Browne being edged out in a very tough category. Stuart Gibbs won the Under 40s (also possibly a new County record).

I understand that Hannah Lias also swam, but I don't know how she got on as I arrived so late.

With no Corsham youngsters taking part in this event, it was left to 3 of our older members to battle their way around 4 laps of Lake 32. Paul Bacon (swimming in his first ever competitive swimming race) and Stuart Gibbs swam shoulder to shoulder all the way round with Stuart just pipping Paul by 3 seconds in the final sprint. New member Sean Browne (dusting off his goggles after 23 years out of the water) came in not far behind.