News Archive
Newly-promoted Worthing experienced a rollercoaster weekend when the men’s Division Three season opened at Grantham Meres Leisure Centre (17/18 September, 2011).
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The Sussex club will have been encouraged by a return of two wins from three games – but it could easily have been three out of three. One of the most dramatic matches of the weekend was their clash with Birmingham, who held a comfortable 11-8 advantage after three quarters.
The match changed dramatically in the final period. Worthing suddenly hit top form, pulling up to 12-12 and levelling again at 13-13 with 51 seconds remaining thanks to a goal by Elan Stark. A draw seemed certain until just four seconds from the end when Ben Cartwright’s fifth goal snatched a 14-13 victory for Birmingham.
Earlier, Worthing defeated Swindon Dolphin 17-10, including a seven-goal haul by Matt White. Their clash with South Derbyshire was another nail-biting affair. South Derby led 10-6 early in the third before a Worthing recovery squared the match at 13-13 at the end of an all-action third period. Then four Worthing goals without reply – by Nathan Hart, Sam Abbott, Tate and Richard Hooper – took them clear and set up an 18-14 win. Hooper finished with eight while Tony Lamparelli scored four for South Derby.
Caledonia, Exeter and Birmingham all won their opening trio of matches, which already means they are strongly placed to move into the second phase of the season in one of the top five places.
Caledonia beat Otter 15-6 and then outplayed University of Bristol 21-6, including four goals in the first quarter from Mark Speed. They rounded off with a 16-10 defeat of Swindon, including four more goals for Speed, three for Dave Baxter and two apiece for Callum McGregor, Darren Campbell and Logan Shepherd.
Exeter have welcomed back Andy Margetts after a season away and he made an immediate impact with eight goals in a 17-10 success against South Derby. Once again, South Derby began well, leading 8-7 at half-time, but then faded in the last period.
Exeter’s 17-13 win against Swindon included five more goals from Margetts – and seven for Swindon by ex-Solihull stalwart Simon Pemberton. Darren Heagarty grabbed seven in Exeter’s third victory – 24-10 against University of Bristol.
Birmingham trailed 6-5 to Otter at the start of the third period but recovered to win 14-9. South Derby’s 17-8 defeat of Otter featured six goals by Boyd Mellors and four by Davide Bernardi.
National Youth Championships 27th-31st July 2011The match changed dramatically in the final period. Worthing suddenly hit top form, pulling up to 12-12 and levelling again at 13-13 with 51 seconds remaining thanks to a goal by Elan Stark. A draw seemed certain until just four seconds from the end when Ben Cartwright’s fifth goal snatched a 14-13 victory for Birmingham.
Earlier, Worthing defeated Swindon Dolphin 17-10, including a seven-goal haul by Matt White. Their clash with South Derbyshire was another nail-biting affair. South Derby led 10-6 early in the third before a Worthing recovery squared the match at 13-13 at the end of an all-action third period. Then four Worthing goals without reply – by Nathan Hart, Sam Abbott, Tate and Richard Hooper – took them clear and set up an 18-14 win. Hooper finished with eight while Tony Lamparelli scored four for South Derby.
Caledonia, Exeter and Birmingham all won their opening trio of matches, which already means they are strongly placed to move into the second phase of the season in one of the top five places.
Caledonia beat Otter 15-6 and then outplayed University of Bristol 21-6, including four goals in the first quarter from Mark Speed. They rounded off with a 16-10 defeat of Swindon, including four more goals for Speed, three for Dave Baxter and two apiece for Callum McGregor, Darren Campbell and Logan Shepherd.
Exeter have welcomed back Andy Margetts after a season away and he made an immediate impact with eight goals in a 17-10 success against South Derby. Once again, South Derby began well, leading 8-7 at half-time, but then faded in the last period.
Exeter’s 17-13 win against Swindon included five more goals from Margetts – and seven for Swindon by ex-Solihull stalwart Simon Pemberton. Darren Heagarty grabbed seven in Exeter’s third victory – 24-10 against University of Bristol.
Birmingham trailed 6-5 to Otter at the start of the third period but recovered to win 14-9. South Derby’s 17-8 defeat of Otter featured six goals by Boyd Mellors and four by Davide Bernardi.
City of Birmingham's National Youth Qualifiers raised their game for the recent Championships at Sheffield coming home with a superb set of results.
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Dispite a large proportion of the squad stepping up from Age Group to Youth this year and being bottom age in the duel age groups 7 of the Squad progressed to Semi Finals and Finals with plenty of big PB's along the way. Finals were made by Boys 4x100fc relay, Richard Spoor 200 Brst, Emma Smith 200 Bk, Dan Ruckwood 200 Bk, Brad Lynch 100 and 200 Fc, Josh Winnicott 100 Brst and Louis Oliver 100 Brst.
Extra congratulations go to our swimmers who achieved top 3 finishes in their Age Group:
Bradley Lynch - 2nd - 1500 Fc/3rd - 200 Fc
Emma Smith - 2nd - 200 Bk
Louis Oliver - 2nd - 100 Brst
Joshua Winnicott - 1st - 100 Brst
European Youth Olympics - 25th-29th July 2011Extra congratulations go to our swimmers who achieved top 3 finishes in their Age Group:
Bradley Lynch - 2nd - 1500 Fc/3rd - 200 Fc
Emma Smith - 2nd - 200 Bk
Louis Oliver - 2nd - 100 Brst
Joshua Winnicott - 1st - 100 Brst
City of Birmingham's Givenchy Sneekes recently competed in the European Youth Olympic Festival in Turkey. Givenchy was representing the Nederlands in the 200IM after being selected from this years Dutch Nationals.
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Givenchy's heat time saw her progress to the 'B' Final in which she PB'd coming 4th.
The whole trip which included holding camps in Holland and Italy will prove invaluable experience for her as she continues to develop her swimming career.
British Gas National Age Group Championships - Sheffield - 21/25th July 2011City Of Birmingham SC took a Squad of 9 swimmers to the National Age Group Championships which took place in Sheffield. The swimmers accumulated 36 National qualifying times between them during the meet, swimming a total of 42 personal best times. Every swimmer representing City of Birmingham made at least one National final which is a fantastic achievement.
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The swimmers had some fantastic results with Emily Graham winning a Silver medal for the 100 metres Butterfly event in the 12 year old girls age group, Emily also qualified for the 400 i.m final. Bethany Morrin qualified for the 200 Butterfly, 200 Breastroke & 400 I.m Final. Benjamin Stanford qualified for the 100,200, & 400 Freestyle Final. Isobel Griffiths qualified for the 400 Freestyle, 200 Backstroke Final and also Finished 6th in the 800 Freestyle. Rebecca Kamau qualified for the 100 Breastroke Final. Jake Dixon qualified for the 200 I.M Final. Kate Davies qualified for the 200 Breastroke Final. Joel Cunningham qualified for the 400 Freestyle Final and Caitlin Britt qualified for the 200 Breastroke Final.
Well Done Swimmers on your fantastic achievements and doing Birmingham proud!
British Gas Scottish National Championships - June 30th-July 3rdWell Done Swimmers on your fantastic achievements and doing Birmingham proud!
The City of Birmingham Senior Squad made the long journey to Glasgow to race at the British Gas Scottish National Championships held at Tollcross, Glasgow. The event was the last chance for swimmers to achieve qualifying times for this year's National Youth Championships but was also a great meet for the existing Youth Qualifiers to gain some vital race practice. > Read more
The meet was of a very high standard with the Spanish and Irish National teams in attendance along with swimmers representing Brazil, Venezuela and Tunisia. We had the pleasure of watching Commonwealth Champions, European Champions, World Champions and Olympic Champions during the meet as well as 2 existing World Record Holders in the form of Rafael Munoz (50 Fly) and Britain's own Rebecca Adlington.
Despite the incredible standard there were a number of City of Birmingham swimmers 'mixing it with the big boys' in the A and B Finals. Finals were made by Karol Bukowski, David Fellows, Louis Oliver, Richard Spoor, Joshua Winnicott, Lucy Corden, Kristie Hackett, Holly Lynch and Emma Smith
2011 Warwickshire Synchro Championships, RugbyDespite the incredible standard there were a number of City of Birmingham swimmers 'mixing it with the big boys' in the A and B Finals. Finals were made by Karol Bukowski, David Fellows, Louis Oliver, Richard Spoor, Joshua Winnicott, Lucy Corden, Kristie Hackett, Holly Lynch and Emma Smith
The Synchro Section gave some great performances at the Warwickshire Championships in Rugby on 2nd July, winning 9 gold, 13 silver and 6 bronze medals. In the Invitation Championships, involving clubs from other regions, Birmingham took 5 gold, 7 silver and 7 bronze medals. > Read more
DHighlights included wins in the Team Championships for both the Warwickshire and Invitation competitions and the overall Club Trophy. Jessica Campbell won the overall Warwickshire Solo Championship. Lucy Ridge & Jessica Campbell won the overall Warwickshire Duet Championship.
British Gas Midland Age Group Swimming Championships June 2011
Over the course of two weekends at Coventry Sports Centre, City Of Birmingham SC took a squad of 17 swimmers to the Midland Age Group Swimming Championships. > Read more
The Championships was a great success with swimmers achieving many new National Qualifying times and numerous finals being made.
City of Birmingham achieved a haul of 9 Golds, 7 Silvers & 10 Bronze Medals.
City of Birmingham were the only club during the championships to take a clean sweep of Gold,Silver & Bronze in the same event. It was achieved in the Girls 11 year old 100 metres Butterfly. This is an extremely rare occurrence and credit must go to all three swimmers.
Well done to all swimmers who took part, it was a fantastic event with some fantastic results.
City of Birmingham Advanced Coaching Scheme - Important Update For All MembersCity of Birmingham were the only club during the championships to take a clean sweep of Gold,Silver & Bronze in the same event. It was achieved in the Girls 11 year old 100 metres Butterfly. This is an extremely rare occurrence and credit must go to all three swimmers.
Well done to all swimmers who took part, it was a fantastic event with some fantastic results.
Please find HERE a letter from the club chairman summarising the outcome of a recent meeting between the City of Birmingham SC and Birmingham City Council regarding the future structure of the Advanced Coaching Scheme. Rotherham Open Meet 14th/15th May - Sheffield
On the 14th/15th May, City Of Brimingham swimming club took it's Junior squad to Sheffield for the Rotheram Open Meet. It proved to be a great success with 109 personal best swims and swimmers gaining many new National qualifying times. > Read more
Despite only taking a squad of 17 C.O.B came 6th in the top club competition and enjoyed a great weekend of fantastic results for all swimmers. Congratulations to all the swimmers on their continued progress.
2011 Midland Youth Championships
Just one week after our annual open meet the City of Birmingham's youth swimmers were racing again at the Midland Championships at Coventry (April 30th - May 1st). Despite the challenge of competing in an entire race programme, including 3 relays over 2 days we managed to come back with some great results. Medallists were: > Read more
- Gold - Bradley Lynch - 1500fc
- Silver - Emma Smith - 100bk, Emma Smith - 200bk, Louis Oliver - 50brst, Joshua Winnicott - 400IM, Mens 4x100fc team, Girls 4x200fc team, Mens 4x100 Medley team
- Bronze - Holly Lynch - 50bk, Emma Smith - 50bk, Holly Lynch - 100bk, Lucy Corden - 100bk, Richard Spoor - 100brst, Richard Spoor - 200brst, Mens 4x200fc team
Our Club's Annual Open Meet was held between 22nd and 25th of April 2011 and was once again a great occasion for all involved, not least the City of Birmingham swimmers themselves. > Read more
Over the 4 days City of Birmingham swimmers achieved a total of 262 PB's, many new National Qualifying times (some for the first ever time) and broke a Warwickshire record. The record was broken by Bradley Lynch, this time in the Junior short course 200 freestyle with a time of 1.54.28.
Congratulations to the organisers that continue to put on such a spectacular show, the volunteers that helped it run so smoothly and the swimmers for their performances in the pool.
A Letter to Members from the Club ChairmanCongratulations to the organisers that continue to put on such a spectacular show, the volunteers that helped it run so smoothly and the swimmers for their performances in the pool.
April 2011: Please click HERE for a message from Dave Corbett, City of Birmingham SC Chairman. 2011 Dutch National Championships - Givenchy Heading to Youth Olympics!
City of Birmingham swimmer Givenchy Sneekes once again travelled to the Nederlands to compete in the 2011 Dutch National Championships. Givenchy, whose parents are both Dutch, races at the meet each year as she qualifies to represent the Nederlands at International level.
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Givenchy's fantastic progress this year was outlined by her fantastic results at the meet. She came home with 4 Gold and 3 Silver Medals, overall Bagcat winner for her age and a new Dutch Age Group record in the 200 Breaststroke.
Givenchy also qualified in the 200IM to represent the Nederlands at this years European Youth Olympic Festival in Trabzon, Turkey.
Congratulations to Givenchy on her superb achievement and I am sure you will all wish her every success in Turkey.
British Gas Swimming Championships, 05/03/11 - 12/03/11Givenchy also qualified in the 200IM to represent the Nederlands at this years European Youth Olympic Festival in Trabzon, Turkey.
Congratulations to Givenchy on her superb achievement and I am sure you will all wish her every success in Turkey.
City of Birmingham took 6 swimmers to the British Championships which were held in Manchester between the 5th and 12th March. The standard of competition was genuinely World Class as the Championships doubled as the Great Britain selection meet for the 2011 World Championships in Shanghai.
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Holly Lynch made a Semi-Final in the 50 metres backstroke and finished in a respectable 11th position while Joshua Winnicott Finished top swimmer in the 1996 born age group in the 100 metres Breastroke in a massive personal best time.
Bradley Lynch continued his record breaking form by coming top of his 1996 born age group in the 400 and 1500 metres Freestyle in new personal best times, smashing his own Warwickshire records in the process.
A big congratulations to Scott Allin, Holly Lynch, Bradley Lynch, Louis Oliver, Dan Ruckwood and Joshua Winnicott for representing the City of Birmingham at such a quality event. The Championships proved a fantastic learning curve, especially for our young swimmers.
Advanced Apprentice of the Year for Synchronised SwimmingBradley Lynch continued his record breaking form by coming top of his 1996 born age group in the 400 and 1500 metres Freestyle in new personal best times, smashing his own Warwickshire records in the process.
A big congratulations to Scott Allin, Holly Lynch, Bradley Lynch, Louis Oliver, Dan Ruckwood and Joshua Winnicott for representing the City of Birmingham at such a quality event. The Championships proved a fantastic learning curve, especially for our young swimmers.
Yvette Baker of the City of Birmingham has been named as the Advanced Apprentice of the Year for Synchronised Swimming.
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She was one of 102 athletes from the world of aquatics that successfully completed their unique apprenticeship, which has been designed to help young people aged 16 to 18 combine education and sport.
Yvette was selected to join the British Synchronised Swimming Team, powered by British Gas, at the High Performance Centre in Aldershot in 2009 during the second year of the AASE programme.
This meant that Baker had to move away from the family home whilst in the middle of her A-Levels but she still managed to keep up-to-date with her work and keep up her ambition to compete in the 2012 Olympics.
'Yvette works really hard at whatever is put in front of her, this is demonstrated by her success and she was academically a high achiever', said Karen Thorpe, the ASA's Talent Development Officer.
New Water Polo Coach AppointedYvette was selected to join the British Synchronised Swimming Team, powered by British Gas, at the High Performance Centre in Aldershot in 2009 during the second year of the AASE programme.
This meant that Baker had to move away from the family home whilst in the middle of her A-Levels but she still managed to keep up-to-date with her work and keep up her ambition to compete in the 2012 Olympics.
'Yvette works really hard at whatever is put in front of her, this is demonstrated by her success and she was academically a high achiever', said Karen Thorpe, the ASA's Talent Development Officer.
It is with great pleasure that we announce that Nigel Greenwood will be taking over as Head Coach of the City of Birmingham Senior Men's Water Polo Team.
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Nigel began his distinguished playing career with Halifax S WPC in 1980 and went on to Captain the Birmingham University Men's team to their last BUSA Gold medal in 1991.
Nigel brings over 20 years of National League experience to City of Birmingham, including nine seasons with Cheltenham WPC in Division 1. Nigel has coached local club Camp Hill Edwardians for the past 7 years and was instrumental in City of Birmingham's Division 3 Championship success last season. The players and committee are excited to build on last years' success under Nigel's leadership.
ASA Central Zonal MeetNigel brings over 20 years of National League experience to City of Birmingham, including nine seasons with Cheltenham WPC in Division 1. Nigel has coached local club Camp Hill Edwardians for the past 7 years and was instrumental in City of Birmingham's Division 3 Championship success last season. The players and committee are excited to build on last years' success under Nigel's leadership.
City of Birmingham SC took a squad of 18 swimmers to the Central Zonal Meet held in Corby on the 29/30th of January 2010.
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Birmingham swimmers achieved many new National Qualifying Times during the weekend along with a tally of 22 P.B's and a Junior Warwickshire record broken by Bradley Lynch in the 1500 Freestyle.
The meet was of a very high standard and Birmingham swimmers came away with 3 Gold Medals, 4 Silver Medals and 3 Bronze Medals. This placed City Of Birmingham SC 6th overall in the top club rankings, again leading the way for the West Midlands Clubs. A big congratulations to all the swimmers who competed over the weekend.
STOP PRESS! Bradley Breaks 23 Years Old Record!The meet was of a very high standard and Birmingham swimmers came away with 3 Gold Medals, 4 Silver Medals and 3 Bronze Medals. This placed City Of Birmingham SC 6th overall in the top club rankings, again leading the way for the West Midlands Clubs. A big congratulations to all the swimmers who competed over the weekend.
This weekend (January 29th/30th) Bradley Lynch broke the longest standing Junior or Senior Warwickshire record. It came in the 1500 freestyle with his time of 16.33.02 breaking the Junior record which had stood since 1988!
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In breaking the Record he also qualified for the British Championships (World Championships Trials) being held in March. The record far exceeds the Birth of all current City of Birmingham swimmers plus Junior Coach Adam Taylor!
Congratulations to Bradley from all associated with the City of Birmingham SC.
Water Polo: Birmingham Narrowly Miss Out In Play-OffCongratulations to Bradley from all associated with the City of Birmingham SC.
City of Leeds will remain in Division Two next season after a thrilling 12-11 play-off victory over Division Three champions City of Birmingham at Manchester Aquatics Centre (21 January).
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Leeds were narrowly ahead for much of the game, despite some outstanding saves by Birmingham goalkeeper Tom Carpenter, including a second quarter penalty.
But tension increased in the final period as Birmingham rallied. Leeds goalkeeper Shaun Greatorex made a vital close quarters save from a shot by Nigel Greenwood and, with a little over two minutes remaining, Gary Tonks third goal brought the Midlanders up to 11-11.
Only victory would have earned promotion for Birmingham. But their hopes were dashed just 23 seconds later when Andy Marshall notched his fourth goal to give his side a one-goal victory.
2011 City of Derby Open Meet, SheffieldBut tension increased in the final period as Birmingham rallied. Leeds goalkeeper Shaun Greatorex made a vital close quarters save from a shot by Nigel Greenwood and, with a little over two minutes remaining, Gary Tonks third goal brought the Midlanders up to 11-11.
Only victory would have earned promotion for Birmingham. But their hopes were dashed just 23 seconds later when Andy Marshall notched his fourth goal to give his side a one-goal victory.
The City of Birmingham attended the City of Derby Open Meet at Ponds Forge, Sheffield on the weekend of the 8th/9th January 2011. City of Birmingham, without 3 swimmers taking part in the England Talent Level 2 Camp in Norwich, once again rose to the occasion and took some big steps forward with 92 PBs recorded over the two days.
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This Meet being only 3 weeks after our successful visit to the Plymouth Leander Meet makes these results even more remarkable.
The Club came away with the Top Club award, beating NOVA, Stockport Metro, City of Derby and City of Sheffield into 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th respectively.
There were also individual successes in the Top Boy and Top Girl category as Emma Smith and Givenchy Sneekes won their respective Age Categories. Other swimmers receiving awards for finishing in the Top 3 overall swimmers in their age were - Beth Morrin, Caitlin Britt, Jake Dixon, Jenny Fowler and Katie Richardson.
Congratulations to all City of Birmingham swimmers and good luck to those racing at the upcoming Zonal Meet at Corby.
2010 Plymouth Leander Open MeetThe Club came away with the Top Club award, beating NOVA, Stockport Metro, City of Derby and City of Sheffield into 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th respectively.
There were also individual successes in the Top Boy and Top Girl category as Emma Smith and Givenchy Sneekes won their respective Age Categories. Other swimmers receiving awards for finishing in the Top 3 overall swimmers in their age were - Beth Morrin, Caitlin Britt, Jake Dixon, Jenny Fowler and Katie Richardson.
Congratulations to all City of Birmingham swimmers and good luck to those racing at the upcoming Zonal Meet at Corby.
The City of Birmingham SC took its whole squad to the Plymouth Leander Open Meet from 17th - 19th December 2010. The meet was an opportunity for the entire club to to travel down and stay together at a meet and was the first time many of the younger swimmers had experienced a meet like this.
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Despite illness, adverse weather conditions and the sometimes confusing organisation of the event, results were once again outstanding in what turned out to be challenging conditions at the meet. The club achieved over 100 PB's over the 3 days and included another Warwickshire County Junior Record for Bradley Lynch in the 400 fc (4.08.37). Despite taking considerably less swimmers than other visiting clubs the City of Birmingham SC finished the meet as second top club on points behind Portsmouth Northsea. Equally importantly the club won the best dressed club award for our effort as convicts on the final day!
2010 National Synchro Championships
Both of the City of Birmingham synchro teams competing at this year's National Synchro Championships in Gloucester on 4th December produced medal winning performances.
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The 15-17 team performed their energetic Moulin Rouge routine superbly to achieve an identical score to Bristol Central and both teams were jointly awarded gold medals. The 13-14 team took the bronze medal with their Austin Powers routine.
All girls who took part in the figures did well. Congratulations to Lucy Ridge & Jessica Campbell who qualified for the first round of the 2011 GB Junior Squad selection process.
Full results are available HERE.
WATER POLO: BIRMINGHAM'S PERFECT FINISHAll girls who took part in the figures did well. Congratulations to Lucy Ridge & Jessica Campbell who qualified for the first round of the 2011 GB Junior Squad selection process.
Full results are available HERE.
Champions City of Birmingham completed the Division Three season with a proud 100 per cent record when they won their final matches against Caledonia (9-8) and Exeter (19-13) at Grantham (27/28 November).
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The clash with Caledonia produced a precise repeat of the sides previous meeting a 9-8 Birmingham win. The Midlanders led 5-1 at the halfway point before Caledonia rallied and, with just over three minutes to go, pulled up to 8-8.
Mike Foulds then claimed a vital ninth goal for Birmingham and, despite further time-outs and near misses, there was no more scoring. Ben Cartwright (3), Gary Tonks (3), Foulds (2) and Shuichiro Kawuaguchi were the Birmingham marksmen.
Birmingham s victory over Exeter proved harder work than the score suggests. Exeter were only 13-12 in arrears at the start of the fourth period but then suffered from the loss of players on three exclusions and were outplayed in the final minutes. Cartwright netted five for Birmingham, with Marcos Alejandro scoring seven of the Exeter goals. There were celebrations for Invicta Marlins, who recorded their first win 16-12 over Ealing, including seven goals by Tom McDonald. Ealing also claimed their second victory of the season as Johan van der Flier contributed seven of the goals in a 17-9 defeat of Swindon Dolphin.
Birmingham now qualify for a promotion play-off against the sixth-placed club in Division Two. Invicta and Ealing drop to Division Four, with Swindon lined up for a probable play-off against Division Four winners Worthing.
Top Coach Visits City of Birmingham SCMike Foulds then claimed a vital ninth goal for Birmingham and, despite further time-outs and near misses, there was no more scoring. Ben Cartwright (3), Gary Tonks (3), Foulds (2) and Shuichiro Kawuaguchi were the Birmingham marksmen.
Birmingham s victory over Exeter proved harder work than the score suggests. Exeter were only 13-12 in arrears at the start of the fourth period but then suffered from the loss of players on three exclusions and were outplayed in the final minutes. Cartwright netted five for Birmingham, with Marcos Alejandro scoring seven of the Exeter goals. There were celebrations for Invicta Marlins, who recorded their first win 16-12 over Ealing, including seven goals by Tom McDonald. Ealing also claimed their second victory of the season as Johan van der Flier contributed seven of the goals in a 17-9 defeat of Swindon Dolphin.
Birmingham now qualify for a promotion play-off against the sixth-placed club in Division Two. Invicta and Ealing drop to Division Four, with Swindon lined up for a probable play-off against Division Four winners Worthing.
On Friday 19th November 2010 City of Birmingham SC were proud to be joined on poolside by Australian Olympic Coach Rohan Taylor. Rohen coaches in Melbourne, Victoria - one of the swimmers he coaches is Australian breastroker Liesel Jones.
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Liesel is widely regarded as the best Female breastroker of all time and has held World Records in both the 100 and 200 Breastroke Short Course and Long Course. She also has an outstanding record of 3 Gold, 4 Silver and 1 Bronze over 3 Olympic Games (2000, 2004, 2008) as well as 10 Golds and 1 Silver over 3 Commonwealth Games (2002, 2006, 2010).
Rohan was in the UK to talk at the Annual British Swimming Coaches Association Conference being held at the Burlington Hotel in Birmingham.
2010 Boldmere Open MeetRohan was in the UK to talk at the Annual British Swimming Coaches Association Conference being held at the Burlington Hotel in Birmingham.
The City of Birmingham SC sent 16 members of the Junior Squad to the Boldmere SC Open Meet on the 20th/21st November at Stetchford LC. The meet was an opportunity for the whole squad, new faces and more experienced junior members, to come together in a professional manner as a team and to compete Short Course early on in the season.
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To the delight of Adam Taylor the squad was on top form with 96 PBs and a total of 7 GOLD, 7 SILVER and 4 BRONZE medals being brought home - and an impressive number of well deserved Midland times were achieved by all swimmers. A massive well done to: Joel Cunningham, Jake Dixon, Braiden Hartles, Liam McGurk, Daniel Moore, Megan Moss, William Moss, Alexander Rogers, Caitlin Britt, Kate Davies, Issy Griffiths, Becky Kamau, Beth Morrin, Franca Phillips,Sophie Stables and Ben Stanford.
ASA West Midland Young Coach of the Year Award
City of Birmingham SC is glad to announce that Head Coach Carl Grosvenor was awarded ASA West Midland Young Coach of the Year on Sunday 14th November at the annual ASA West Midlands Awards Dinner held at Villa Park.
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Carl was nominated by his fellow regional coaches for the award and said 'To be recognised by fellow coaches is always nice. Thanks to Birmingham City Council and West Midland Swimming for their support of myself and the City of Birmingham SC but thanks most of all to all the City of Birmingham Commitee Members, Coaches and Swimmers for their efforts both in the past, present and future.
2010 Midland Short Course Championships
The City of Birmingham SC sent its 17 qualifiers to the recent Midland Short Course Championships held at Corby. It was the first City of Birmingham meet of the season for all swimmers and turned out to be a massive success and fantastic start to the season with 62 new PB's!
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The 10 Birmingham swimmers that raced ALL swam in either a relay or individual final and Medals were won by Bradley Lynch (2 Bronze) and Emily Graham (2 Silver, 3 Bronze). Things could have been even better with Birmingham swimmers coming away with 4th place SEVEN times Massive credit must go to the swimmers for their performance, commitment and behaviour during the Championships and coming away with such fantastic results. The swimmers now have a well earned break before getting back to hard training at the end of the month.
Congratulations to all swimmers, especially those who brought home medals, on some fantastic results from the Championships and such a great start to the new season. Swimmers attending were: Karol Bukowski, Dave Fellows, Brad Lynch, Louis Oliver, Dan Ruckwood, Josh Winnicott, Sophie Bridgman, Lucy Corden, Courtni Foster, Jenny Fowler, Emily Graham, Kristie Hackett, Alice Holmes, Lydia New, Katie Richardson, Emma Smith and Givenchy Sneekes.
Chase SC 2010 Open MeetCongratulations to all swimmers, especially those who brought home medals, on some fantastic results from the Championships and such a great start to the new season. Swimmers attending were: Karol Bukowski, Dave Fellows, Brad Lynch, Louis Oliver, Dan Ruckwood, Josh Winnicott, Sophie Bridgman, Lucy Corden, Courtni Foster, Jenny Fowler, Emily Graham, Kristie Hackett, Alice Holmes, Lydia New, Katie Richardson, Emma Smith and Givenchy Sneekes.
The City of Birmingham SC sent 12 of its newest recruits to the Chase SC Open Meet on the 23rd/24th October at Stafford LC. The meet was an opportunity for the swimmers to represent the City of Birmingham for the first time, and for Adam Taylor to see his new swimmers step up and race for the first time.
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The swimmers came
The swimmers certainly did step up and all achieved many massive PB's with most swimmers achieving a PB in every race they entered. The 12 swimmers also
brought home an impressive haul of 22 medals! Congratulations to all the swimmers who made such an impressive start to their careers with
City of Birmingham SC... The future looks bright! Swimmers Attending were: Joel Cunningham, Braiden Hartles, Daniel Moore, William Moss,
Alexander Rogers, Caitlin Britt, Kate Davies, Issy Griffiths, Becky Kamau, Beth Morrin, Franca Phillips and Sophie Stables.
CoB Water Polo - Played 12 Won 12!Only a remarkable turnaround on the final weekend of the season will deprive City of Birmingham of the Division Three title after they maintained their 100 per cent record with another hat-trick of wins at Walsall (6/7 November).
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One more point from their last two matches at Grantham on 27/28 November admittedly against Caledonia and Exeter, the second and third-placed teams will ensure success and the prospect of a promotion play-off against the sixth team in Division Two.
The key game for Birmingham was their clash with Caledonia which, predictably, was close all the way through. The score was 8-8 with four minutes to go and it remained like that until less than two minutes from the end when Gary Tonks fourth strike of the match earned his side the points.
Birmingham were actually three goals down early on against Swindon but then recovered to win 17-11. They rounded off with a 19-11 victory over Invicta Marlins.
Caledonia won their remaining games high-scoring affairs against Warley (19-12) and Ealing (20-16).
Exeter took over from Warley in third place after a weekend of close matches. A goal 26 seconds from the end by Andy Barry clinched a 12-11 victory over Warley; they needed late goals from Steve Margetts and Darren Heagarty to edge through 17-16 against a determined Ealing team; and trailed South Derbyshire in the last quarter until a goal by Margetts with 33 seconds remaining earned a 13-13 draw.
In the battle of the two bottom sides, Ealing defeated Invicta 22-10, with Jakob Iwanowski (5), Vincente Torres (4) and Johan van der Flier (4) leading the scorers.
Invicta may not have picked up any points this season but they gave South Derbyshire a run for their money, trailing 12-11 early in the final quarter before going down 17-14.
Graham Harrington claimed eight of Warley s goals in a 21-16 success against Swindon. Rob Toolen, the division s top marksman, also scored eight remarkably, including seven in the final quarter!
Water Polo League Website
Synchro Section Enjoys Championships SuccessThe key game for Birmingham was their clash with Caledonia which, predictably, was close all the way through. The score was 8-8 with four minutes to go and it remained like that until less than two minutes from the end when Gary Tonks fourth strike of the match earned his side the points.
Birmingham were actually three goals down early on against Swindon but then recovered to win 17-11. They rounded off with a 19-11 victory over Invicta Marlins.
Caledonia won their remaining games high-scoring affairs against Warley (19-12) and Ealing (20-16).
Exeter took over from Warley in third place after a weekend of close matches. A goal 26 seconds from the end by Andy Barry clinched a 12-11 victory over Warley; they needed late goals from Steve Margetts and Darren Heagarty to edge through 17-16 against a determined Ealing team; and trailed South Derbyshire in the last quarter until a goal by Margetts with 33 seconds remaining earned a 13-13 draw.
In the battle of the two bottom sides, Ealing defeated Invicta 22-10, with Jakob Iwanowski (5), Vincente Torres (4) and Johan van der Flier (4) leading the scorers.
Invicta may not have picked up any points this season but they gave South Derbyshire a run for their money, trailing 12-11 early in the final quarter before going down 17-14.
Graham Harrington claimed eight of Warley s goals in a 21-16 success against Swindon. Rob Toolen, the division s top marksman, also scored eight remarkably, including seven in the final quarter!
Water Polo League Website
The hard work in recent months by swimmers, coaches & team managers in preparation for this year's Midland Championships was rewarded with excellent performances in Leicester on Saturday 30th October.
> Read more
Birmingham's medal tally of 7 gold, 2 silver and 2 bronze included golds for Championship Combination Team; 13-14 Combination Team; 15-17 Combination Team; Championship Duet (Jessica Campbell & Lucy Ridge); 15-17 Duet (Katie King & Lucy Ridge); 13-14 Duet (Lois Powell & Phoebe Bradley-Smith) and 15-17 Solo (Lucy Ridge).
Videos of the duet and team routines are available in the Synchro Section HERE.
Birmingham Water Festival - ResultsVideos of the duet and team routines are available in the Synchro Section HERE.
Full results from the Birmingham Water Festival are now available HERE. Water Polo - Last Ditch Exeter Win Boosts Birmingham
City of Birmingham are clear leaders of Division Three after main rivals Caledonia crashed 14-13 in a spectacular match against Exeter at Marlborough College (23/24 October). Exeter had hardly hit the heights in completing earlier wins against Swindon Dolphin (16-11) and Invicta Marlins (22-11). But the clash with the Scots produced a match of real quality and drama.
> Read more
At the start of the final period, Exeter, with powerful Andy Barry and Spaniard Emmanuel Salvivelli leading the attack, led 12-9. With four minutes remaining, however, Caledonia had recovered to trail 13-12 and they sensed a chance of victory when Barry had a one-on-one opportunity brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Simon Metcalfe.
Salvivelli then scored his fifth goal to put Exeter 14-12 up. Once again, Caledonia responded, notching a goal by Andrew Woodall with less than three minutes left. But, crucially, they then had a penalty saved by Exeter goalkeeper Will Purchall and the points went to Devon club.
Caledonia will still feel they have a chance of overhauling Birmingham the sides meet twice in the final weeks of the season.
But Birmingham seem to be improving with every game, wearing sides down with a slick counterattacking approach. They were four goals up before derby rivals Warley fond the net and, with Nigel Greenwood scoring five, completed a comfortable 12-5 victory.
At the other end of the table, Invicta Marlins had a chance of their first points of the season when they battled back from 5-1 down to begin the last quarter against Swindon Dolphin at 9-9. Swindon finished the stronger, however, and won 13-11, with Rob Toolen scoring five. Dan Hanlon and Jamie bailey notched four each for the Marlins.
Ealing, inspired by Johan van der Flier, were also chasing their first victory when building an early 4-0 lead against South Derbyshire. But South Derby had recovered to lead 9-8 at the start of the final period and eventually they won 12-10, including five goals by Neil Swainson.
Water Polo - Birmingham and Caledonia Take ChargeSalvivelli then scored his fifth goal to put Exeter 14-12 up. Once again, Caledonia responded, notching a goal by Andrew Woodall with less than three minutes left. But, crucially, they then had a penalty saved by Exeter goalkeeper Will Purchall and the points went to Devon club.
Caledonia will still feel they have a chance of overhauling Birmingham the sides meet twice in the final weeks of the season.
But Birmingham seem to be improving with every game, wearing sides down with a slick counterattacking approach. They were four goals up before derby rivals Warley fond the net and, with Nigel Greenwood scoring five, completed a comfortable 12-5 victory.
At the other end of the table, Invicta Marlins had a chance of their first points of the season when they battled back from 5-1 down to begin the last quarter against Swindon Dolphin at 9-9. Swindon finished the stronger, however, and won 13-11, with Rob Toolen scoring five. Dan Hanlon and Jamie bailey notched four each for the Marlins.
Ealing, inspired by Johan van der Flier, were also chasing their first victory when building an early 4-0 lead against South Derbyshire. But South Derby had recovered to lead 9-8 at the start of the final period and eventually they won 12-10, including five goals by Neil Swainson.
City of Birmingham and Caledonia underlined their Division Three title ambitions with three more wins apiece at Walsall (9/10 October). Both sides have 100 per cent records from six matches, with Warley (eight points from six games) the nearest challenger.
> Read more
Birmingham, coached this season by Vargin Yeke, enjoyed the more comfortable passage of the top two. Nigel Greenwood (4), Gary Tonks (3) and Shuichiro Kawunguchi (3) were the chief scorers in a 17-9 defeat of Exeter.
They hammered Invicta Marlins 23-5 and rounded off with a 17-9 victory over Swindon Dolphin. Tonks (he won his first international honours in 1986 according to the Walsall honours board) helped himself to 16 goals in the three games.
Caledonia started slowly against South Derbyshire, struggling to contain five-goal Craig Mellors. The Scots trailed 8-7 at the halfway point but turned the game around in the third period, scoring five times without reply. South Derby rallied again towards the end, but Caledonia held on for a 13-12 victory.
David Stewart, Mark Speed and Callum Fraser all scored three in a 16-10 defeat of Ealing. Then Caledonia withstood a late rally by Warley to clinch an 11-9 victory.
Warley outplayed Invicta Marlins 21-5, including five goals each for Graham Harrington, Phil Powell and Roger Kennedy. Adam Whitehall bagged five against Swindon, who were beaten 17-10.
Neil Swainson scored six in South Derbyshire s 15-10 defeat of Exeter, who at least rounded off a disappointing weekend with two points from a 12-6 victory over Ealing. Will Purchall, Exeter s 19-year-old goalkeeper, was in outstanding form all weekend.
Next round is at Malborough 24/25 October.
Water Polo National League 2010 Week OneThey hammered Invicta Marlins 23-5 and rounded off with a 17-9 victory over Swindon Dolphin. Tonks (he won his first international honours in 1986 according to the Walsall honours board) helped himself to 16 goals in the three games.
Caledonia started slowly against South Derbyshire, struggling to contain five-goal Craig Mellors. The Scots trailed 8-7 at the halfway point but turned the game around in the third period, scoring five times without reply. South Derby rallied again towards the end, but Caledonia held on for a 13-12 victory.
David Stewart, Mark Speed and Callum Fraser all scored three in a 16-10 defeat of Ealing. Then Caledonia withstood a late rally by Warley to clinch an 11-9 victory.
Warley outplayed Invicta Marlins 21-5, including five goals each for Graham Harrington, Phil Powell and Roger Kennedy. Adam Whitehall bagged five against Swindon, who were beaten 17-10.
Neil Swainson scored six in South Derbyshire s 15-10 defeat of Exeter, who at least rounded off a disappointing weekend with two points from a 12-6 victory over Ealing. Will Purchall, Exeter s 19-year-old goalkeeper, was in outstanding form all weekend.
Next round is at Malborough 24/25 October.
City of Birmingham's new recruits Ben Cartwright (ex-Birkenhead) and Nigel Greenwood (ex-Cheltenham) - both scored four goals as their team beat Ealing 17-9 to ensure a six-point start to the Division Three season at Middlesbrough.
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TBirmingham also defeated South Derbyshire 9-8 thanks to a goal 14 seconds from the end by Cartwright and Midlands rivals Warley 16-8. This time, it was ageless ex-international Gary Tonks and Jason Culloo who each contributed four of the Birmingham goals.
Caledonia were the only other side to notch victories from their three matches and look well set to challenge for promotion.
Andrew Woodall (4) and Ryan Laird (3) led the scoring in a 15-12 defeat of Exeter, for whom Darren Heagarty hit seven.
Callum Fraser netted four in Caledonia s 16-9 win against Swindon. The Scots rounded off with a comprehensive 20-4 victory over Invicta Marlins.
Late goals for South Derbyshire by Tony Lamparelli and Craig Mellors failed to avert an 11-10 defeat by Warley.
Week two matches will be at Walsall Gala Baths on 9th and 10th October
Rebecca Cole Represents GB at European Junior ChampionshipsCaledonia were the only other side to notch victories from their three matches and look well set to challenge for promotion.
Andrew Woodall (4) and Ryan Laird (3) led the scoring in a 15-12 defeat of Exeter, for whom Darren Heagarty hit seven.
Callum Fraser netted four in Caledonia s 16-9 win against Swindon. The Scots rounded off with a comprehensive 20-4 victory over Invicta Marlins.
Late goals for South Derbyshire by Tony Lamparelli and Craig Mellors failed to avert an 11-10 defeat by Warley.
Week two matches will be at Walsall Gala Baths on 9th and 10th October
Rebecca Cole represented Great Britain at the European junior championships in Helsinki, Finland last week. Rebecca, making her international debut, had a great meet swimming two life-time bests and winning a silver medal as part of the heats team in the 4x100m Medley Relay.
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Rebecca was very unlucky in her individual 100m backstroke where she
finished fourth overall in the heats but failed to qualify for the semi
finals. Although four swimmers per nation can enter European competitions,
only two may progress into semis and finals and two of Rebeccas teammates
were 2nd and 3rd after the heats.
Rebecca's time in the lead off swim of the relay of 1.03.55 was also a new Worcester County and West Midlands junior record. City of Birmingham SC would like to congratulate Rebecca on her achievements and wish her all the best for the upcoming National Youth Championships starting on 2nd August
2010 Warwickshire & Invitation Synchro ChampionshipsRebecca's time in the lead off swim of the relay of 1.03.55 was also a new Worcester County and West Midlands junior record. City of Birmingham SC would like to congratulate Rebecca on her achievements and wish her all the best for the upcoming National Youth Championships starting on 2nd August
The City of Birmingham Synchro team gave fantastic performances at the Warwickshire ASA and Staffordshire ASA Warwickshire & Invitation Championships held in Rugby on 3rd July. The final medal tally in the Warwickshire Championships was 13 gold, 7 silver and 9 bronze. In the Invitation Championships we won 7 gold, 4 silver and 4 bronze.
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The 13-14 team and 19 & under team took gold in both competitions as did Katie King (15-17 figures & 15-17 solo); Phoebe Bradley-Smith (13-14 solo); 13-14 duet (Lois Powell & Phoebe Bradley-Smith); 15-17 duet (Katie King & Lucy Ridge).
Emily Firth took gold in the Championship Figures and was crowned the Figures Champion. City of Birmingham was awarded the trophy for Best Overall Team. The full medal list is available at www.synchro.org.uk
2010 Midland Age Group ChampionshipsEmily Firth took gold in the Championship Figures and was crowned the Figures Champion. City of Birmingham was awarded the trophy for Best Overall Team. The full medal list is available at www.synchro.org.uk
City of Birmingham age group swimmers (Boys 10-14yrs, Girls 10-13yrs) raced over the weekends of 5th/6th and 12th/13th June at the Midland District Age Group Championships. The club came away with some great results. Our 13 swimmers achieved 3 Gold, 13 Silver and 11 Bronze medals between them and gained 60 new P.B's and several new National Qualifying Times along the way.
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Extra congratulations go to our Gold medal winners, Bradley Lynch (1500fc) and Emily Graham (100fly and 100fc). The club also qualified for National Age Groups on every relay.
These Championships are the last major event prior to the National Championships in Sheffield starting in July and for all qualifiers the focus now switches to preparation for this event.
Photo: Steve Harlow Photography
Givenchy Shines at Dutch Nationals!These Championships are the last major event prior to the National Championships in Sheffield starting in July and for all qualifiers the focus now switches to preparation for this event.
Photo: Steve Harlow Photography
City of Birmingham swimmer Givenchy Sneekes recently competed at the Dutch National Junior Championships in Amsterdam (18th-20th June 2010) coming away with a PB in every event and 2 Bronze medals. The Bronze Medals came in the 400IM and 200 Breastroke with her coming 4th and just missing a medal in the 200IM.
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Givenchy is a Dutch National and would be eligable to compete for the Netherlands in International competition in the future.
Congratulations to Givenchy on her success from all at City of Birmingham.
Photo: Steve Harlow Photography
City of Coventry Open Meet/East Midlands Long Distance Time TrialsCongratulations to Givenchy on her success from all at City of Birmingham.
Photo: Steve Harlow Photography
City of Birmingham sent its Junior Squad to both the City of Coventry Open Meet (8th and 9th May) and the East Midlands Long Distance Time Trials on the 9th May. The Squad raced well all weekend and achieved some great results. The squad left Coventry with an impressive medal haul of 24 Gold, 25 Silver and 13 Bronze as well as gaining 48 new P.B's and several new National Qualifying Times.
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Seven City of Birmingham swimmers in total raced at the 800/1500 Time Trial at Loughborough University pool.
The swimmers again came back with a great set of results with 5 of the 7 swimmers achieving National Qualifying Times.
Most of the swimmers involved will now be looking forward to performing well at the upcoming Midland District Age Group Championships.
2010 Open Meet PhotosMost of the swimmers involved will now be looking forward to performing well at the upcoming Midland District Age Group Championships.
In response to a number of requests received by Steve Harlow for photos taken at this year's Easter Open Meet, Steve has now provided access to photos (of City of Birmingham swimmers only) on his website at steveharlowphotography.co.uk. Please feel free to visit the site - follow the instrcutions on the 'Events' page to access the photos. Midland Youth Championships 1st and 2nd May 2010.
The May bank holiday weekend was a busy time for the City of Birmingham Swimming Club swimmers when they raced at the Midland Youth Championships in Coventry. The team had a very successful weekend considering several key members of the squad were missing through illness.
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The swimmers came
away from Coventry with some excellent results, a host of new National
Qualifying Times and 9 Gold, 8 Silver and 7 Bronze medals.
Leading the way were Holly Lynch (3 Gold), Dan Ruckwood (2 Gold, 1 Silver),
David 'Maximus' Maxwell (2 Gold, 1 Silver) and Dan Evans (1 Gold, 2 Silver,
1 Bronze).
All the swimmers will now be training hard for a competition in Sheffield at the end of May which will be their final racing opportunity before the National Youth Championships in August.
Water Polo Final ResultAll the swimmers will now be training hard for a competition in Sheffield at the end of May which will be their final racing opportunity before the National Youth Championships in August.
The City of Birmingham Junior Water Polo team lost out in their quest to gain their first National title when Lancaster City Juniors regained their National Title at the 2010 National Junior Water Polo Championships after 19 years. At one point the City of Birmingham held a four goal lead but eventually lost out to a very strong Lancaster team 17 goals to 14. Rebecca Selected for Great Britain Junior Team
Congatulations to Rebecca Cole of City of Birmingham SC, who has been selected for the GB Junior Squad to compete at the European Junior Championships. This will be her first international meet and she will travel to Helsinki, Finland as part of a squad of 39 top junior swimmers competing for European pride from 14th - 18th July.
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She has been selected to swim the 100metres Backstroke following her excellent
performances at the recent British Championships in Sheffield at the
beginning of April, where her semi final time of 1.03.99 was a lifetime best by
over 2 seconds, breaking the Worcestershire Junior Record and securing her
selection.
Rebecca was straight back into training after the championships with a week-long camp in Spain. We wish her all the best for the Europeans this summer.
Successful Championships for Birmingham SwimmersRebecca was straight back into training after the championships with a week-long camp in Spain. We wish her all the best for the Europeans this summer.
Six City of Birmingham swimmers recently competed at the British Championships in Sheffield that doubled as the trials for the Commonwealth Games, European Championships and European Junior Championships.
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Alex Hooper, Holly Lynch, Rebecca Cole, Dan Ruckwood, Will Smart and Richard
Spoor all raced hard and swam some great times.
Alex and Holly led the way with great swims to make the final of the 50m Backstroke. Both girls, along with Rebecca Cole, also made the semi-final of the 100m Backstroke. Dan Ruckwood swam well to make the semi-final of the 50m Free and 100m Backstroke. He narrowly missed the final of the 200m Backstroke where he finished in 12th position. Will Smart raced the 50m Free and Richard Spoor swam the 200m Breaststroke.
17th City of Birmingham Open Meet - ReportAlex and Holly led the way with great swims to make the final of the 50m Backstroke. Both girls, along with Rebecca Cole, also made the semi-final of the 100m Backstroke. Dan Ruckwood swam well to make the semi-final of the 50m Free and 100m Backstroke. He narrowly missed the final of the 200m Backstroke where he finished in 12th position. Will Smart raced the 50m Free and Richard Spoor swam the 200m Breaststroke.
The 17th City of Birmingham Open meet was held at Stechford Cascades, Birmingham from Friday 2nd to Monday 5th April. This was the first licensed meet that included both level2 and level3 competitions run together at the same time in the Midlands region. The format worked well and provided an opportunity for swimmers with mixed qualifying times to be able to compete at one event and on equal time scales.
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Over the weekend there were 3585 swims by 601 swimmers from 69 clubs set as far apart as Carlisle and Essex. 58 National Youth Qualifying times and 16 national age group qualifying times were set along with several hundred Midland Championship times. Also of note were the two GB S10 records at 1500m free and 200m back set by Andrew Gould from Sheffield City SC - for the second year running - and Warwickshire records by City of Birmingham swimmers Bradley Lynch in the 800m free (Junior short course) and Holly Lynch in the 50m backstroke (Senior short course).
17th City of Birmingham Open Meet Results and Thanks
A great big thank you to all the swimmers, coaches and parents for making the meet such a success. My especial thanks to all the yellow shirt brigade from City of Birmingham, Boldmere and Fox Hollies for their work in the background (and sometimes in the foreground).
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Some folk I need to say a great big thank you to: Neil Holmes, John Swinhoe, Andy Youngman, Jack Wilson, Judy Tullett, Helga Edstrom and the evergreen Phil Littler for their efforts.
We hope all those who attended had a good time. We know we didn't get it all right but as a new venture as a combined level 2 and level 3 meet we had a deal to learn. We hope to see as many people as possible back next year.
Congratulations to Aaron Kirchin-Brown for retaining his 'iron man' trophy and to Andrew Gould for breaking his own GB S10 records at the meet and retaining the Les Hayes Memorial Trophy. Warriors were top club, Killerwhales best supported and Warriors the most improved club to win the remaining trophies.
A full breakdown and report will follow shortly. Keep watching out on the web site for updates."
Andy Jackson, City of Birmingham SC Chairman
Monday Results - without splits Monday Results - with splits
Sunday Results - without splits Sunday Results - with splits
Saturday Results - without splits Saturday Results - with splits
Friday Results - without splits Friday Results - with splits
Top Boys Top Girls
Bordeaux International Meet, France 6th/7th FebruaryWe hope all those who attended had a good time. We know we didn't get it all right but as a new venture as a combined level 2 and level 3 meet we had a deal to learn. We hope to see as many people as possible back next year.
Congratulations to Aaron Kirchin-Brown for retaining his 'iron man' trophy and to Andrew Gould for breaking his own GB S10 records at the meet and retaining the Les Hayes Memorial Trophy. Warriors were top club, Killerwhales best supported and Warriors the most improved club to win the remaining trophies.
A full breakdown and report will follow shortly. Keep watching out on the web site for updates."
Andy Jackson, City of Birmingham SC Chairman
Monday Results - without splits Monday Results - with splits
Sunday Results - without splits Sunday Results - with splits
Saturday Results - without splits Saturday Results - with splits
Friday Results - without splits Friday Results - with splits
Top Boys Top Girls
City of Birmingham Swimming Club's Alex Hooper raced in Bordeaux, France over the weekend of 6th/7th February as part of the England team at the prestigious Bordeaux International. Alex had a busy weekend of racing as part of her preparation for the Commonwealth Trials in late March.
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Her
Gold medal winning swim in the 50m Backstroke against a strong
international field was the highlight of a tough weekend, as well as
her top 5 finishes in the 100 Back and 200 Free.
It is back into hard work now for Alex as she continues her preparation for the Trials in March - along with fellow Birmingham swimmers racing there, Dan Ruckwood, Richard Spoor, William Smart, Rebecca Cole and Holly Lynch.
Synchro Section Celebrates SuccessIt is back into hard work now for Alex as she continues her preparation for the Trials in March - along with fellow Birmingham swimmers racing there, Dan Ruckwood, Richard Spoor, William Smart, Rebecca Cole and Holly Lynch.
A large crowd of families, friends and guests enjoyed the Synchro Section Celebration Display at Stechford Cascades recently. The display included many of the medal winning routines which brought the club success during 2009.
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In regional competitions the club won gold medals in 26 events, silver
in 13 events and bronze in 8 events. The season came to a climax with superb
performances at the National Championships resulting in a gold medal for the
15-17 team, a silver for the 13-14 team and bronze medals for the 12 & under
team and the 12 & under duet.
One of the club's senior members, Yvette Baker, moved to Aldershot to train full time with the GB Senior Squad during 2009 and, more recently, Katie King and Lucy Ridge have been selected to take part in trials for the 2010 England Age Group Squad.
Success breeds success and membership of the club increased significantly during 2009 with many younger members joining and the Celebration Display provided the newer members with the opportunity to perform their routines to an audience for the first time.
City of Derby Open Meet 9th-10th JanuaryOne of the club's senior members, Yvette Baker, moved to Aldershot to train full time with the GB Senior Squad during 2009 and, more recently, Katie King and Lucy Ridge have been selected to take part in trials for the 2010 England Age Group Squad.
Success breeds success and membership of the club increased significantly during 2009 with many younger members joining and the Celebration Display provided the newer members with the opportunity to perform their routines to an audience for the first time.
The City of Birmingham took both Squads to the City of Derby Open Meet last weekend (9th/10th January) and enjoyed another successful weekend. Birmingham swimmers achieved another 82 PB's, despite managing 81 PB's only last month at the Plymouth meet. Birmingham swimmers also won 13 Golds, 11 Silvers and 16 Bronze medals.
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Extra congratulations go to Emily Graham and Holly Lynch who came 1st and 2nd respectively in the Top Girl competition in their age groups, and to Jake Dixon (4th Top Boy) Josh Winnicott (2nd Top Boy) and Charlie Payne (2nd Top Boy) in their age groups.
Holly also broke the Warwickshire County long course record for 50m Backstroke.
Plymouth Leander Christmas Open Meet 18th-20th December 2009Holly also broke the Warwickshire County long course record for 50m Backstroke.
The City of Birmingham SC travelled down to Millfield School last weekend (18th-20th December) to compete at the Plymouth Leander Christmas Open Meet. Both the Junior Squad and Senior Squad competed as one for the first time this season.
> read more
For a few of the younger swimmers it was their first experience of travelling and staying away at a meet without their parents. Despite the senior squad having to cope without the soon to be banned performance enhancing suits for the first time, the Club still had some fantastic results. We came 2nd overall to Portsmouth Northsea in the Top Club award, beating Team Bath and some other well represented clubs along the way. Overall we achieved 81 PB's, 11 Gold Medals, 10 Silver Medals and 7 Bronze Medals. More importantly than all that though, Adam and Carl won best Fancy dress for their Sunday appearance as Fred Flintstone and Barney Rubble!!
The Club would like to thank May Smith as always for her tireless work in organising the meet for us, and also the 3 chaperones, Julie Foster, Allan Colclough and Darren Oliver for their support of the Swimmers and Coaches during the trip.
2009 ASA National Synchronised Swimming Championships 4th-6th December 2009The Club would like to thank May Smith as always for her tireless work in organising the meet for us, and also the 3 chaperones, Julie Foster, Allan Colclough and Darren Oliver for their support of the Swimmers and Coaches during the trip.
Superb performances from all our girls against stiff opposition at this year's National Championships in Gloucester resulted in a medal tally of one gold, one silver and two bronze. The 15-17 team opened on Friday with an energetic routine to take gold in the combination team event.
> read more
Phoebe Bradley-Smith and Lois Powell followed with a great performance in the 12 & under duet to take bronze.
On Saturday, the 13-14 team produced their best peformance of their combination routine this year to take silver.
The 12 & under team rounded off a great weekend on Sunday taking bronze with their combination routine. Congratulations to all the girls and coaches for a brilliant climax to our competitive season. More details here.
Boldmere 2009 Open Meet 21st-22nd November - ReportOn Saturday, the 13-14 team produced their best peformance of their combination routine this year to take silver.
The 12 & under team rounded off a great weekend on Sunday taking bronze with their combination routine. Congratulations to all the girls and coaches for a brilliant climax to our competitive season. More details here.
Over the weekend of the 21st/22nd November, City of Birmingham sent a young squad of 14 swimmers to the Boldmere Open Meet at Stechford.Despite the limited size of the CoB contingent, the club still managed to put in a strong performance, taking second place in the table of top visiting clubs...
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- with City swimmers winning many medals and returning from the meet with a large number of new PBs.
Coach Carl Grosvenor comments: 'Congratulations to all of the swimmers who took part for their performance in the competition and to Boldmere Swimming Club for hosting a fantastic meet'.
Squad:
Boys: Brad Lynch, Josh Winnicott, Jordan Youngman, Karol Bukowski, Ben Colclough, Charlie Payne, Jake Dixon, Charlie Hackett, Liam McGurk
Girls: Katie Richardson, Lara Hadlington, Givenchy Sneekes, Emily Graham, Katrina Holmes
2009 Midland Short Course Championships ReportCoach Carl Grosvenor comments: 'Congratulations to all of the swimmers who took part for their performance in the competition and to Boldmere Swimming Club for hosting a fantastic meet'.
Squad:
Boys: Brad Lynch, Josh Winnicott, Jordan Youngman, Karol Bukowski, Ben Colclough, Charlie Payne, Jake Dixon, Charlie Hackett, Liam McGurk
Girls: Katie Richardson, Lara Hadlington, Givenchy Sneekes, Emily Graham, Katrina Holmes
City of Birmingham sent its team of 28 qualifiers to the Midland Short Course Championships in Corby on the weekend of 7th/8th November. This is the first meet that City of Birmingham has attended as a group this season yet some of the results were outstanding.
> Read more
We had 60 new PB's which included several new National Qualifying times. Our swimmers qualified for 33 Finals where 16 medals were picked up by City of Birmingham swimmers, 3 Gold, 7 Silver and 6 Bronze. City of Birmingham were also in record breaking form as Holly Lynch broke 2 Senior Warwickshire records, the 50m Backstroke that had stood for 9 years plus the 100 Back that had stood for 13 years! Rebecca Cole also broke the Worcestershire Junior records on 50 and 100m Backstroke and the City of Birmingham Male 4x100fc relay team broke the West Midlands Senior Record.
City of Birmingham Swimming Club Announces New Open Meet Sponsor - GAIA TECHNOLOGIESCity of Birmingham Swimming Club are pleased to announce that Gaia Technologies have become the new main sponsors for the Easter Open Meet in 2010. Gaia add to the long term main club sponsors Tempus Computers in ensuring the Open Meet is a financial success.
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The Chairman, Andy Jackson, would like to personally thank Anas Mawla of Gaia for his generosity in assisting the Club. Please visit the Gaia Technologies website to view the company's extensive range of ICT Services and Solutions.
ESSA (English Schools Swimming Association) 60th Inter Divisional ChampionshipsOn the 23rd and 24th of October, City of Birmingham sent 17 of its swimmers to represent their relevant Division at the ESSA (English Schools Swimming Association) 60th Inter Divisional Championships at Crystal Palace. It is an annual competition that is attended by some...
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of the best swimmers across England and the standard is extremely high. With this in mind we had some excellent results with 13 individual finals and 4 medals going to Dan Ruckwood, Holly Lynch, Becky Cole and Louis Oliver. Extra Congratulations go to those four.
As a result of these championships and this years National Championships, an England team will be selected to compete at the World School Games which will be held in Qatar in December. Alex Hooper, despite being unable to compete at ESSA this week has been pre selected for this team. Alex is no stranger to this event, having won a Silver medal at the 2006 event held in Athens and will be hoping to go one better this time!
Swimmers who raced at the Championships were: Dan Ruckwood, Dan Evans, Rich Spoor, David Maxwell, David Fellows, James Robinson, Louis Oliver, Josh Winnicott, Bradley Lynch, Holly Lynch, Kristie Hackett, Becky Cole, Victoria Robinson, Alice Holmes, Lucy Knibbs, Jenny Fowler and Alix Swinhoe.
2009 ASA Midlands Synchronised Swimming ChampionshipsAs a result of these championships and this years National Championships, an England team will be selected to compete at the World School Games which will be held in Qatar in December. Alex Hooper, despite being unable to compete at ESSA this week has been pre selected for this team. Alex is no stranger to this event, having won a Silver medal at the 2006 event held in Athens and will be hoping to go one better this time!
Swimmers who raced at the Championships were: Dan Ruckwood, Dan Evans, Rich Spoor, David Maxwell, David Fellows, James Robinson, Louis Oliver, Josh Winnicott, Bradley Lynch, Holly Lynch, Kristie Hackett, Becky Cole, Victoria Robinson, Alice Holmes, Lucy Knibbs, Jenny Fowler and Alix Swinhoe.
Superb performances from the City of Birmingham team secured an impressive haul of medals at the 2009 ASA Midlands Synchronised Swimming Championships held at Walsall Gala Baths on Sunday 25th October. Our total haul of 8 gold medals, 3 silver medals and 3 bronze medals included golds...
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for the overall Championship Duet and Championship Team competitions. Congratulations to all of our athletes, coaches & team managers. Full details HERE.
Welcome to the Re-Launched City of Birmingham Swimming Club Website!The site has long needed an overhaul to bring it more in line with modern technologies.
Thanks to Jack Wilson at Wilson Web Design for his work in designing and implementing the new portal to the club...
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and to Steve Harlow who has provided an exceptional photographic input - which we believe makes this site one of the best available.
We have kept the design clean and simple to facilitate efficient navigation and presentation of information. We hope you find what you are looking for and that you bear with us as we build the site over a number of months.
Andy Jackson
Chairman
We have kept the design clean and simple to facilitate efficient navigation and presentation of information. We hope you find what you are looking for and that you bear with us as we build the site over a number of months.
Andy Jackson
Chairman
