Local swimmers excel at Short Course Champs

GEELONG Swimming Club athletes are grinning from ear to ear following a successful trip this year’s Victorian Age Short Course Championships held on September 6-8.

The three-day championships took place in Melbourne at Melbourne Sports & Aquatic centre, with 15 swimmers representing the Melbourne Swimming Club’s Geelong branch (MSC Geelong).

The local representatives returned with 16 medals, while Romy Heard starred in eight individual events, achieving six top 10 placings, including three bronze medals in the 200m and 400m individual medleys and the 50m freestyle.

Heard also secured a silver medal in the mixed 12-18yr freestyle relay on the final night.

The 16-year-old said her efforts were bolstered by the club’s elite training and culture.

“I’m fortunate to have great teammates and the support of the MSC coaching team who tailor programs to each athlete,” Heard said.

James Logan won eight individual medals in the multiclass events for swimmers with disability, including gold in the 200m freestyle and 100m butterfly.

He holds multiple Australian S15 records and now has his sights set on the 2025 Deaflympics in Tokyo.

Program coach Lucky Weerakkody brings 30 years of experience to the role including service as Australian Paralympic team coach at the 2005 and 2006 Aquatic World Championships.

He said MSC Geelong provided opportunities for all levels and abilities of swimming.

“The results this weekend is testament to the success of our program and the athlete’s commitment to their sport.

“We’re thankful to City of Greater Geelong and Geelong College for the lane space in which we train.”

Melbourne Swimming Club (MSC) finished in second place overall at the championships.