A HEAVILY depleted Lincolnshire squad recently travelled to the Queens Leisure Centre at Derby for the East Midlands Inter County Masters Competition. Containing four representatives selected from Gainsborough Dolphins they placed fifth against a high standard of swimmers from Nottinghamshire, Northamptonshire, Derbyshire (A and B teams) and Leicestershire. With many of the county swimmers missing it meant a heavy work load for those in attendance forcing as many as nine races each over the hour and a half of competition. Fresh from her honeymoon in the Caribbean was Ruth Howitt and despite having not trained for over a month put in some very good performances to finish fifth in both the 50m breaststroke and backstroke events of the Ladies 18-30 years age group. The many absentees resulted in Dolphins Masters team manager Nic Clover and club mate James Lugg being the only male representatives in the 30-39 years age group. James swam an excellent 50m freestyle finishing fifth in a very close finish whilst Nic gained a fourth in the 50m breaststroke and two fifth place finishes in his less than favourite 50m butterfly and backstroke events. Making his debut for Lincolnshire in the Masters was 18 year old Peter Trickett who produced a fine swim to place fourth in the Mens 18-30 years 50m backstroke as he was also involved in a tight finish between second and fifth places. All four contributed to many relay events alongside their fellow county teammates with them all putting in creditable displays. Further congratulations to Ruth and Peter who were presented with their Lincolnshire county colours by the President of Derbyshire ASA prior to the first race of the afternoon. The formation of the new swimming club in the town has allowed the Masters section to have its own identity and water time away from the main competitive squads. With two categories available for competitive and fitness the sessions are organised and friendly with achievable schedules allowing for personal development at each member’s own pace. Any ex-swimmers who fancy getting back in and reliving their youth or anyone who wishes to attend to improve their fitness are more than welcome. For more information please visit the Club website – www.gainsboroughdolphins.co.uk or contact Nic Clover 07519520021 or email skip06@talktalk.net.
