January News

I t was a month of mixed fortunes for Buxton Swimming Club as they began their 2006 competitive season in earnest. Having gained promotion, their initial venture commenced on January 15th. with a visit to Sale in the higher division of the Peak and Plain League - a league designed primarily to be a spring-board for new and inexperienced competitors. Pitched against surprisingly strong teams from Trafford, Macclesfield and Sandbach, the squad, which included many fledgling swimmers, put up a spirited performance to finish a close fourth.

The following weekend their Crusader League Division 2 campaign got underway at Alsager. Given the higher standard of the league, Buxton were able to include their top senior swimmers. As newly promoted Division 3 champions, the squad exuded a justifiable confidence which saw them run the home team very close for first place, and relegate teams from Stoke and Crewe to third and fourth positions.

The Queens Leisure Centre, Derby was the next port of call for club members, with the popular Trident Open Meet on 29th. January.

Sterling performances saw victories for the consistently outstanding girl swimmers Emily Allsopp, in both the 100 metres backstroke and butterfly, and Frances Anderson in the 100 metres freestyle.

Club record breakers Ben Higgins and Harry McCaffery had an excellent meet. Ben lifting the 50 metres breaststroke trophy and Harry placing second in the both the 50 metres backstroke and freestyle. There were praiseworthy performances from every swimmer, many of whom were experiencing their first big meet.

To cap a busy four weeks the club travelled to Sandbach on February 11th. for the second round of the Peak and Plain League galas. Buxton pooled a squad depleted by the unavailability of several swimmers which resulted in the crucial loss of valuable points through non-representation in some events. Despite this handicap, every competitor gave 110% and their efforts, together with a renewed and burgeoning team spirit, pulled the club to within 6 points of victory - finishing in equal third position with the hosts. The club is hopeful of eliminating its points deficit at both of the two remaining galas, initially, to allay any fears of unwanted relegation and eventually, to secure a top two placing.

The club is always on the lookout for swimmers of all ages and abilities. Anyone interested in becoming a member should access the web site - www.buxtonswimmingclub.co.uk               R. M.