The Lonely Swimmer

Ever since the CSSC Games 2009 I have been looking forward to getting back into pool at Ponds Forge. With a few months training, knowing I was the only swimmer from JURA (Ministry of Justice Recreation Association) and the Eastern region plus it being my first championships I headed off to Ponds Forge with an open mind.

Any concerns of spending a birthday up there on my own vanished after checking into the Hilton. Some of other competitors were already there so I headed for the bar- a chance for some networking (yes swimmers do still drink!)

Thursday came and so did the competition...having seen the standard being high in earlier events I headed to lane 2 for the open 100m backstroke, I knew it was now or never. 4 lengths later, out of breath, realising I had won a silver medal, got JURA's name known, a huge smile appeared and never disappeared!

Friday was my day for competition, 3 races and a chance of a medal in the masters 50m backstroke and chatting to the people I had met the day before. This is much better than sitting in the office. Another day of good swims, friendly rivalry, records, medals (another silver to pack in the bag) and an opportunity to see Sheffield by night!

CSSC's swimming championships- a well organised event, 2 silver medals, plenty chances of networking and opportunities to meet new people; an experience I shall never forgot culminating in the burning desire to promote swimming in the Eastern region. Maybe just maybe we can go one better next year and take a team?!

Laura Edwards

JURA East & Norwich AA Committee Member