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THE Victorian Short Course Championships at the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre proved to be a bumper meeting last weekend.
More than 570 swimmers from 35 different clubs from across the state attended the championships with Geelong Swim Club taking out winning honours.
The Wangaratta Amateur Swim Club finished 11 in the team rankings which was a massive effort considering the club had 15 swimmers competing as opposed to Geelong’s 70-plus.
Wangaratta Amateur Swim Club president Allison Allen said everything went to plan.
“Everything went smoothly, it was a fantastic weekend,” Allen said.
“We had 570 swimmers, plenty of spectators and a packed out stadium which was great to see.
“We had great feedback on the facility and everyone said they loved coming to Wangaratta.
“Another thing people loved was that the outdoor pool was open for swimmers to warm up and cool down as well as train in the Friday night.”
Wangaratta Amateur Swim Club had a successful weekend with Max Chandler winning three silver medals, while Gabe Watson won bronze in the 50m breaststroke.
"The whole team, including swimmers, coaches and parents did our club proud as one of the host clubs of the meet," Allen said.
"All had fun, did their best, and helped ensure the competition was a huge success."
The short course season now comes to a close with long course meetings next on the agenda.
September will be a huge month with swimmers attending the Victorian State Aged Championships in Melbourne, as well at the Australian Country Championships to be hosted in Darwin.
Wangaratta Amateur Swim Club Victorian Short Course Championships results:
• Wangaratta Amateur Swimming Club had 15 swimmers qualify for the competition.
• 59 swims in total.
• Max Chandler won silver in the 50m backstroke, 50m freestyle and 100m freestyle multi-class events.
• Gabe Watson won bronze in the 50m breaststroke.
• Harry Allen, Max Chandler, Dylan Dickson, Nina Fortaliza, and Gabe Watson achieved finalist (top 8) positions.
• 22 personal best times achieved.
• Seven new State qualifying times achieved.
• Four new Australian Country Championships qualifying times achieved.
• 24 improved rankings.
• 11th position overall – punching above our weight with powerhouse clubs like Geelong (1st) and Traralgon (2nd) entering more than 70 swimmers each.





