MEMBERS of a club going from strength to strength are backing a campaign to get more people swimming.
Buckley Amateur Swimming Club is supporting the Big Splash, the UK’s largest ever swimming campaign, which aims to encourage the nation’s existing swimmers and inspire new people into the pool.
One in five children leave primary school without being able to swim, and the club’s head coach Pete Rose is passionate about providing opportunities for people of all ages to get swimming.
He said: “My message to parents is that swimming is a sport in which your children can progress at their pace, and they’ll meet and mix with children of all ages, and gain an immense amount of confidence.
“Here at Buckley ASC we ensure there is a choice of routes – we support swimmers who train to become elite athletes and also children who enjoy fun and competitive swimming alongside other activities and school life.”
Coaches at the club give voluntary support to help Flintshire Council provide swimming lessons for schools across Flintshire, as well as running training sessions most weekday evenings, early mornings and weekends.
Mr Rose, who joined the club three years ago, said: “The club now attends Level 1 meets across the UK, making finals and medalling. Three years ago we couldn’t even get the qualifying times to get to those meets.
“Our status as an independent club allows us to support Flintshire swimmers right on their doorstep, and we’re determined to continue to develop our performance as a team, and our provision for Flintshire children and their parents.”
The club finished fourth in the Welsh National League in 2009, and in the 2010 season competed in the National Arena League (NW) Division 1 and won the final gala by 33 points.
Elliott Jones, 13, from Buckley has progressed through the club and is currently the fastest 13 year old boy in Welsh history for 50m backstroke.
The club is keen to welcome new swimmers.
For more information visit www.buckleyswimmingclub.co.uk.