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Young para-swimming hopefuls go head to head in Sunderland

This weekend (14-15 March 2020) more than 100 British swimming hopefuls make a splash at Activity Alliance’s National Junior Para-Swimming Championships. It will be the second time Sunderland has hosted this event.

Junior Swimmer in pool at 2018 competition

For many, the Championships are a starting block for national competition. A well-established part of the swimming pathway, many top world and Paralympic medallists discovered their talent at this event.

In this short course event, 10-18 years old compete in Freestyle, Backstroke, Breaststroke, Individual Medley and Butterfly.

Image shows Poppy Maskill beside swimming pool with a medal around her neckPoppy, an S14 para-swimmer [Alsager Swimming Club], said:

“I’m looking forward to the Championships. I love racing and I want to get some personal bests and medals. My training has been going great. I’ve been to a British swimming camp where I have improved on my dives. This is one of my main goals for the event.”

Activity Alliance is the leading national charity focussed on disabled people’s inclusion in sport and active recreation. The events programme is renowned in working with partners to ensure more disabled people can access opportunities. This event is made possible through a partnership with Swim England.

Barry Horne, Activity Alliance’s Chief Executive, said:

“We’re delighted to put on this event for so many young para-swimmers. As we look to the Tokyo Paralympic Games in the summer, it is crucial new young talent is able to develop in every sport. We want to increase the chance for those gold-winning moments, but also drive the wider benefits of being active. 
“These Championships are a testament to the amount of work delivered at grassroots level that introduces new swimmers and grows participation. We’re proud to once again be bringing the event to Sunderland this year- our thanks go to Swim England, SOS and Sunderland City Council for their support.”

Jane Nickerson, Swim England chief executive, said:

“We’re proud to be working in partnership with the Activity Alliance to make the National Junior Para-Swimming Championships possible.
“This is a fantastic event and gives so many youngsters the opportunity to take part in competitive races.
“The Paralympics in August will be a huge inspiration to many of those swimming at these championships and who knows, we may see some of the stars of the future in action this weekend.
“We hope that everyone taking part – and those who are cheering them on – have a memorable time.”

Spectators will be able to buy tickets at the venue on the day. Details are as follows:

  • Event: National Junior Para-Swimming Championships 2020
  • Venue: Sunderland Aquatics Centre, Stadium Park, Sunderland, SR5 1SU
  • Dates: Saturday 14 March – Sunday 15 March
  • Saturday: Session one, race starts at 9:30am. Session two, race starts at 2:30pm
  • Sunday: Session three, race starts at 9:30am

Start lists and results will be available online on the day of the event. Follow the event conversation with the hashtag #JuniorParaSwim20.

Main image credit: SWPix.com