Winsford Swimming Club

Congratulations to our 3 2026 Open Water National Qualifiers. Jessica Goldsmith, Charlotte Ainscough and Eris Coxon. First up was Jess in the 7.5km race, this was Jess’ first time at the higher distance and absolutely took it in her stride. We had to navigate the feed station and pacing such a long distance. After a solid performance Jess finished in an incredible 14th position in the UK. On top of having her GCSEs this summer and trying to sustain the training for this event you absolutely nailed it. Congratulations Jess!

Next up was Charlotte in the 5km - after finishing 4th last year she was ready for another shot. Charlotte executed a near perfect race plan- she sat within in the lead pack for a good 4.5km drafting comfortably off the other girls. With half a lap to go it got very exciting, the ref was following the pack on his boat blowing his whistle for the girls to separate. It was go time- a sprint for the finish from all 7 girls and Charlotte finished an impressive 7th in the UK just shy of the medals via a sprint finish, medals only being separated by a near photo finish. Charlotte took quite the beating in this race, it was pretty viscous but she took it in her stride. It was by far the most exciting race of the day for all spectators. Well done Charlotte, can’t wait for next year! You have a bright future ahead of you.

Finally we had Eris, her first ever Open Water Nationals, after an incredible regional qualifier she was excited to race. Eris took it out strong, a small tactical error whilst turning a buoy meant the lead pack had a slight pull away. Eris then chased and chased for the entire race and finished in an amazing 6th position in the UK. Top 10 was the aim so 6th was beyond solid. Also just shy of the medals. 

Both Charlotte and Eris compete this week at English Nationals in the pool, huge good luck girls! 

Thank you to Hattie and Kym for coming to support and to our wonderful parents for looking after me during the long enduring 14 hr day I did! Keeping me hydrated and fed. 

Special mention to Lucy Lee who competed in the 1km the day after as well, and had a fantastic result. 

What I found exceptionally spectacular about the event was how good the entirety of the North West did at the event. So many medals came from our region showing the strength and depth we have in the region currently for distance swimming. I had the additional pleasure of coaching the Regional OW and Distance Talent programme this year, alongside Bob Bolton, with the support of Sale Water Park. It was amazing to see that success coming through at national level. 

Molly