Etwall Eagles Jubilee Masters Open 06

On a particularly miserable, damp November morning a small convoy of vehicles carrying eighteen or so members made the journey north up the M1 to Derby. There was a sense of anticipation as one person knew they would prove themselves to be the fastest person in the club and therefore be crowned King. (Yes if you haven't guessed it, Derby welcomed the return of the 25m freestyle dash.)

More of the coronation later.

It was good to see a large turn out of swimmers from the club, comprising of seasoned campaigners and relative competitive novices. In an extremely friendly meet I can safely say a good time was had by all.

There were a few notable performances, Brenda Hallard and Elisabeth Green battled it out for the honours in their age group, with Brenda coming out on top. David Bethell, John Smith, Jackie Barker and Mel McWhirter also scooped the overall third places in their respective age groups. There were also many notable individual performances to numerous to mention.

The standout performance of the day was adjudged to be Rob Egan's 50m Freestyle although his breastroke leg of the relay wasn't bad either.

Now back to the 'Man who would be King'

In my capacity as chairman I felt duty bound to challenge the entire club to a sprint challenge over the blue ribbon distance of 25 metres, to decide once and for all (or for this year anyway) who is the fastest person in the club. After issuing my challenge it soon became obvious that the great and the good and the self professed stars had 'got the fear' and refused to enter to avoid being humbled. With a couple of notable cry off's on the day it came down to three who would most likely scoop the coveted title. It was an intense competition that was finally won by one tenth of a second by the shortest man in the field. By taking the title 'King Of the Club' he bucked a trend lasting some 450 years. Not since James I in 1566 has a Scotsman been crowned monarch on English soil. It therefore gives me great pleasure to announce. "The King is dead - Long Live King John (Hamilton)"

Last and by no means least many thanks goes to Rachel for organising the post gala shin dig in Leam.

Well done to all that took part.

All the results

Results Sheet pdf
Team Points pdf
Individual Points pdf