Geelong swimmers dominated the regional championships once again in Mildura last weekend.
For the fourth year in a row Geelong Swimming Club secured the Victorian Country Championship title, with a huge haul of 116 medals – 51 gold, 43 silver and 22 bronze – across the three-day meet’s 121 events.
Geelong swimmer Nicole Briscoe, 19, was named the championships’ most successful swimmer, winning the Bruce Carter Trophy with five gold, three silver and two bronze medals.
Briscoe’s teammate, 19-year-old Cameron Ricchini, was also a standout during the event, earning himself five gold and five silver medals.
Arabella Johnson and Keppler Snijders, both 13, competed in open sections as well as their age groups, with Arabella claiming three gold and three silver medals and Keppler taking home five gold.
Geelong Swimming Club’s multiclass athletes also excelled, with swimmers Riley Blitz (18), Meg Conheady (17), Bradley Doolan (30), Evie Lee (14) and Ryan McGrane (32) earning a collective total of 14 gold, 17 silver and five bronze medals.
Head coach Aaron Tenabel expressed pride in the team’s performance.
“This victory is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship of all our athletes,” Tenabel said.
“I couldn’t be prouder of their achievements this weekend, and the future of our club is looking brighter than ever.”
Club president Tim Woods praised the talented competitors coming from swimming clubs throughout regional Victoria.
“This weekend once again showcased the talent and dedication within country swimming,” he said.
“The fierce competition and the joy on the faces of all swimmers is a testament to the continued growth and success of regional swimming programs across Victoria.
“We applaud the hard work and commitment of swimmers, coaches, and committees from all clubs.”