Storm-hit Guernsey swimmers shine at Jersey Tigers Open
Despite travel disruption caused by Storm Austen, a determined group of just five Guernsey Swimming Club swimmers made their mark at the Jersey Tigers 45th October Open Meet, held at Les Quennevais Pool from 23 to 25 October.
The Club had originally entered 13 swimmers, but adverse weather conditions prevented eight from making the journey to Jersey. However, those who successfully reached the island produced a series of impressive performances, including multiple podium finishes and personal bests.
Among the standout performers was Luke Le Cras, who dominated several events in the 16-and-over age category. Le Cras claimed four gold medals in the 50m breaststroke, 50m and 100m butterfly, and 100m individual medley. He added silver in the 50m freestyle and bronze in the 100m freestyle to complete an excellent weekend of racing.
Hugo Cann also enjoyed a successful meet, securing gold in the 200m butterfly, silver in the 400m individual medley and bronze in the 100m butterfly. Cann began his competition with an impressive 5.16-second improvement in the 100m individual medley and contested a further five events across the backstroke, butterfly and individual medley disciplines.
At just nine years old, Harriet Grierson was the youngest member of the travelling team. Despite being limited to two events, she made both count, securing silver medals in the 50m and 100m freestyle. Her 50m freestyle performance was particularly encouraging, with an improvement of 4.11 seconds on her previous best.
James Eley represented the Club across six events, competing in the 100m and 200m breaststroke, all three sprint and middle-distance freestyle events from 50m to 200m, and the 100m individual medley.
Oliver Grierson, meanwhile, overcame the travel disruption to arrive in Jersey in time for the final day of competition. He contested four events, taking on the 200m backstroke, 50m and 100m freestyle, and 100m breaststroke.
While Storm Austen significantly reduced the Club’s representation at the meet, the five swimmers who made the journey ensured Guernsey Swimming Club was well represented, demonstrating determination and delivering strong performances against competition in Jersey.
