Swim England Success for James

Posted at 1:37 pm on 5th October, 2021

Swim Star James, Year 8

Year 8 Wellacre student, James, has recently received some news from Swim England, which we are delighted to share with the school community. 

Swim England’s Head of Talent has selected James to join their National development Programme for 2021/22 and at 12 years of age, this is a considerable achievement!

James will be taking part in some Zoom land training and coaching workshops, followed by a poolside training day next year.

Of his success, James said:

“I’m really happy and looking forward to finding out what this will all entail.  My aim is to be in the top 25 in the UK to make it to phase 2, so I’ll be working hard!”

A member of Flixton Swim team, James is currently ranked 33rd, 45th and 33rd in Britain for his 50, 100m and 200m butterfly events and is also in the top 100 in the whole of Britain for several other swimming events. 

Some of his recent race events were streamed live on YouTube to watch as spectators were not allowed due to Covid restrictions.

James also took part in an Open Water Swimming Festival recently at Sale Water Park.  He came 1st overall (male and female, and against some very fast adult swimmers) in the 1500m open water race, with a race time of 24.58mins.

James’ parents are extremely proud and say:

“He is absolutely going from strength to strength in the pool and we are massively proud of him and his commitment – especially to the 5.30am Monday morning training sessions!”

Principal, Mrs Sharrock, said:

“James, we all admire your commitment and wish you every success in the future!”