MORE than 60 swimmers of all ages and disciplines sought to better their best times and qualify for competitions at the Skipton Swimming Club Gala.

Held at the Craven Leisure Centre in July, the Gala acted as a qualification meet for those wanting to compete at higher levels, in events such as October’s Yorkshire County Winter Competition.

More than 50 swimmers were given an ‘A’ grade or higher for their efforts.

Standout swims included Sean Smith’s 100m breaststroke, where he improved upon his personal best time by nearly two seconds, and his 50m breaststroke, in which he now ranks as the 26th fastest seventeen-year-old in Britain.

Max Shillito powered through the sub-minute barrier in the 100m freestyle, with a time of 59.22 seconds.

Micah Warner achieved a 200m backstroke personal best of 2 minutes and 15.36 seconds.

Meanwhile, club captain Amelia Redfearn’s 400m freestyle was ranked at ‘AA’ standard.

Organized by USA Swimming and FINA, the grading system in swimming (A, AA, AAA, AAAA) classifies swimmers based on their event times.

The system uses certified officials to ensure accuracy.

More information about Skipton Swimming Club is available at www.skiptonsc.co.uk, or by contacting Issy at newmembers@skiptonsc.co.uk.