Holland hails his hopefuls

Oldham Aquatics Club members head to Sheffield on Monday. Pictured are assistant coach Carly Herbert (back, left) Danny Whitham,Matthew Shipp, Caitlin Wareing, head coach Lee Holland. Fracesca Chiappe (front, left) Olivia Askew, Sophie Kenny and Nicola Farrell. Not pictured: Rhiannon Prestage.

SWIMMING:

OLDHAM Aquatics Club takes eight swimmers to the British Age Group and Youth Championships in Sheffield on Monday.

Francesca Chiappe, Olivia Askew, Caitlin Wareing and Nicola Farrell take part in the age group category, for 11 to 14-year-olds, while Matt Shipp, Sophie Kenny, Danny Whitham and Rhiannon Prestage are in the youth section, for those aged between 15 and 18.

They will all compete over 10 days at Ponds Forge pool.

More than 20 events await them. Matt is gearing up for the 100 metre and 200m backstroke, and 200m, 400m and 800m freestyle, while Danny competes in the 50m and 100m freestyle.

Sophie battles it out in the 200m butterfly and 400m individual medley, Rhiannon is set for the 50m freestyle, and Francesca tackles 100m freestyle, 4x100m and 4x200m freestyle team.

Caitlin swims in the 4x100m and 4x200m freestyle team, while Olivia is kept busy by 100m butterfly, 100m, 200m and 800m freestyle, and 4x100m and 4x200m freestyle team.

Head coach Lee Holland is excited about the potential being shown by the group.

He said: “In my first season at the helm I have seen massive improvements in all of these athletes.

“I would like to pay particular tribute to my assistant coach, Carly Herbert, and the rest of the coaching team for their ongoing support.

“Everyone is looking forward to the big test in Sheffield on Monday, where they can compete with other talented swimmers.

“Whatever happens, they will benefit from the experience of taking part in a big tournament.”

Holland has watched his young charges’ performances with pride.

He believes their dedication to the cause is paying off.

“They work so hard and are always focused on the task in hand, their determination is there for all to see,” he added.

“Our swimmers have a good chance of progressing and doing very well in this competition.

“We can’t wait to get there and give it a good go.

“In every event there is a genuine chance of success for members of our club.

“Those who don’t make it into the medal positions might at least reach finals, so it’s exciting times.

“I’ve only been here since January and this is probably the culmination of everything we’ve been working towards.”