Local swimming teacher, Rebecca Smith, has once again represented Great Britain, this time competing in the European Masters Swimming Championships in Belgrade, Serbia.
Rebecca competed in the 45 to 49-year-old age group at the end of last month and finished in second place in the 100m freestyle, third in the 50m freestyle, fourth in the 400m freestyle and sixth in the 1.5km Open Water race.
“The event itself was good fun and well organised and in terms of my performance it was good,” explained Rebecca. “I damaged a nerve in my neck back in October so this has impacted training since and it’s not 100% recovered, so to go out and swim faster than I have done since I’ve been injured was encouraging.”
Rebecca took part in the championship alongside her teammate from their swimming club, Swindon Tigersharks.
“Both our partners came with us for support,” says Rebecca. “It was very hot in Serbia initially but it did cool down though, which was much better for racing!
“There are some pretty parts of Belgrade and the people were all very friendly and welcoming. I had never been there before which was one of the reasons for wanting to go and compete, a great opportunity to experience another country.
“Thank you to everyone who has encouraged me and supported me throughout my swimming journey (and still continues to do so), it means a lot!”