Local swimmers from Melbourne Swimming Club’s Geelong branch (MSC Geelong) were victorious following a five-day battle in the pool at the state’s premier swimming event.
The Mattioli Victorian Age Long Course Championships took place at Melbourne Sports & Aquatic centre last month.
MSC Geelong swimmers joined their MSC metro teammates on pool deck to deliver an outstanding whole-club performance which saw MSC lead the point score from day one. The hard-fought competition continued into the fifth day with MSC finally claiming victory and unseating Nunawading Swim Club from its long-held podium position.
MSC Geelong swimmers returned with 15 medals.
James Logan stepped up with a stellar performance across the board winning 10 individual medals in the multiclass events for swimmers with disability.
“I’m fortunate to have the support of the club and coaches,” he said.
“Training is hard work but fun when you’re surrounded by a great team.”
The 18-year-old athlete set a new Australian S15 record in the 400m freestyle and rounded out his state campaign being awarded Para Age Group Champion 15-18yrs. Logan now has his eyes firmly set on the 2025 Deaflympics in Tokyo.
The club and MSC Geelong branch continued their incredible run with further success at the Victorian Open Water Championships in Geelong on 21 December. Eastern Beach became a picturesque backdrop for the event with the MSC Geelong team winning a further 10 championship medals.
Stand-out performances from Liam Walker, Billie O’Bree and Archie Greco winning gold in their respective events.
The local program is led by senior coach Lucky Weerakkody and provides opportunities for all levels and abilities.
“The results this week are testament to the success of our program and the Open Water Championships being on our doorstep gave our team the extra confidence they needed,” he said.
“We’re thankful to City of Greater Geelong and Geelong College for the lane space in which we train.”
Weerakkody brings 30 years of experience to the role including service as Australian Paralympic team coach at the 2005 and 2006 Aquatic World Championships.
Weerakkody is supported by assistant coach Andy Warren.
MSC is led by Olympic coach Ian Pope who oversees the four MSC branches across the state.
“In 2020, we set out to be the premier swimming club in Victoria, this week we achieved it,” he said.
“Results as a club and individuals were testament to the swimmers’ application to their training.”
