Geelong Swimming Club (GSC) was crowned 2023 Victorian Country Champions following a three-day battle in the pool at Wangaratta from January 21 to 23.
Thirty-seven clubs fought it out for a podium position and it was the GSC competitors and it was the 66 members of GSC who were successful in claiming back-to-back titles with the winning result being decided by relays on the final day of the championships.
Coaches faced strong competition and stormy weather which put a halt to racing during the meet.
In 2022, GSC was victorious in achieving its long-awaited goal bringing home the Alan Monaghan Shield for the first time in 22 years.
Head Coach and former Australian Dolphin Aaron Tenabel attributed the win to the athletes’ dedication and a strong club culture.
“To perform at this meet day after day, for three days you need to have the support of your team and the belief that your hard work will deliver,” he said.
As well as taking podium position the club achieved amazing results across the board.
Swimmer Nicole Briscoe was awarded the Bruce Carter Trophy for the 14/over competitor with the highest individual aggregate point score and Jacob Riches won the Rob Geoffrey trophy for the 13/under highest point score.
The club also took home the Napthine Shield for the highest point score in the men’s category.
“Country Champs is one of the first championship meets a swimmer can qualify for so we all come together and cheer our team,” Tenable said.
“The racing is hard and fast which sets swimmers up for state and national championships in the coming months. Back-to-back wins illustrates that our program works.”
GSC president Glenn Benson acknowledged the success of the community-based club.
“We thank our sponsors Finance For Living and the City of Greater Geelong for the use of their quality facilities,” he said.
“Without them we would not have access to training. Some years ago we set the strategic goal to become the premier swimming club in regional Victoria and this has been actioned.”
