ETWALL EAGLES SWIMMING CLUB

After waiting over three years to win our first team trophy we only had to wait a further three months before number two came along! The ‘top visiting’ team trophy was presented to Captain Briggs after a surprise victory at the Gloucester Masters event (We never expected the Captain to be this busy)!

Only after the halfway points were announced did the squad have any ideas that a famous victory might occur – well famous at least in the village of Etwall! A titanic battle developed during the second session between ourselves, Cardiff Masters and our friendly rivals Shrewsbury.

First place was only decided during the final event of the programme the 50m Freestyle. Despite some late bravado and excellent swimming from Mr Burge (who was wearing his Shrewsbury colours) it was Etwall who edged a tight competition.

Everybody appeared in good form with PB’s rolled out for fun during the morning session. Laurie rediscovered his love for events other than Freestyle – and with medal success, Debutant Lisa is left with the wrong impression that we always win the team trophy! and Paul (from the Ingle school of early morning swimming) is now only fractions away from joining the sub 30 club, in fact 1.7mms if my maths are correct!!

The Team Manager came up trumps again with his relay selection. Using the old ‘rotation’ system both Men’s and Ladies teams competed well finishing with top three placings.

Ruth set a new regional record in the 50m Backstroke and Dave equalled the East Midlands mark for the 50m Freestyle. In total thirteen club records were broken with endless amount of pb’s set throughout the event.

Well done to all that swam in a great team effort.

Top Visiting Club

Final Points (top 5)

1. Etwall Eagles 280 points

2. Cardiff Masters 273

2. Shrewsbury Masters 273

4. Birmingham Masters 227

5. Cinderford 188

Many thanks to Gloucester Masters for an enjoyable competition.

Gloucester Masters Meet, April 2008