THE fastest 25-yard sprint performances overall in the Darwen Masters Swimming Club Gala came from defending champions Jonathon Smith and Emily Kinnery.

Both retained their titles with Jonathon taking just 11.21 seconds to cover the one-length dash, while Emily repeated her best female performance of last year, this time in 12.12 secs in the annual event which was held at their Darwen Pool base.

They can now proudly claim to be the fastest swimmers in Darwen after their explosive power brought success in the event, which was incorporated into the club championships.

As in all Masters events, the races were organised into five-year age categories - the youngest swimmer was 19 years and the oldest over 70.

The club caters for the more mature swimmer, and although the name may suggest catering for the elite, this is certainly not the case. Formed in 1988, the club provides teaching and coaching for all abilities of swimmers at Darwen Pool on Wednesday evenings from 9-10pm and Saturdays from 5-7pm. Anyone interested in joining the club is welcome to sample a Saturday session, free of charge, before deciding whether to take the plunge and join. On arrival ask to speak with one of the coaches - Alan, Kath or Matt and they will make the introductions.

Other age group winners were - Male - A (25-29 years): Anthony Davies 12.72 secs, B (30-34 years): Gary Vickers 11.36 seconds, D (40-44 years): Ken Shackleton 12.98 secs, E (45-49 years): Dave Neville 12.86 secs, F (50-54 years): Graham Croxson 12.71 secs. G (55-59 years): Alan Wilkinson 15.30 secs, J (70-74 years): Peter Tucker (14.07 secs).

Female - C (35-39 years): Pam Blackwell 14.27 secs, D (40-44 years): Karen Jones 14.69 secs, E (45-49 years): Rena Barnes 15.03 secs, J (70-74 years): Barbara Morton (17.50 secs).

A presentation was made to Rena Barnes, club treasurer for 11 years before stepping down last year, who received a memento.

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