Stroud Seals Swimming Club had been inactive for many years before a small group of enthusiastic swimmers banded together to breathe new life into it.
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The club, made up with swimmers from Stroud, Karuah, Medowie, Dungog and Clarence Town, train at Lakeside Leisure Centre in Raymond Terrace.
On the weekend of September 28 and 29 a dedicated group of eight Seals travelled north to compete in Port Macquarie for the first long course carnival of the season.
All the swimmers performed well and thoroughly enjoyed the lovely weather and relaxed atmosphere.
Swimmers ranged in age from Angel Gray, 9, to Tim Tatchell, 19.
Stroud Seals bagged five medals at the carnival.
Hosanna Gray, 12, was one of the youngest Seals that claimed medal. She claimed bronze in the 12 and under 200m breast stroke.
The eldest swimmer, Tatchell, fought his way towards a much coveted bronze medal in the 50m breast stroke.
Robert Stanley, 17, claimed a silver medal in the 200m breast stroke, swimming in a very competitive field.
Grace Gray claimed second and third places in the 50m and 100m breastroke.
All the swimmers present achieved a personal best in one or more of their events which head coach Michael Abel said he was pleased to see.
“We are using the carnival to benchmark times for country, state or nationals depending on the level of the swimmers,” Abel said.
“The benchmarking process gives the swimmers tangible goals to achieve which keeps them focused towards the larger goals.
“All swimmers swum to their ability with excellent results.
“We are looking forward to a good season.”
Stroud Seals is now active and looking to register members.
More information can be found at stroudseals.swimming.org.au or email stroudseals.swimclub@outlook.com