BRIDGWATER Amateur Swimming Club

 Winners of the 2008 Cotswold League championship

 The league's A final, on Saturday, May 10, was an emotional    rollercoaster, not only for the swimmers, but also the numerous parents and friends who went along to support.

As Bridgwater attempted to win the league for the first time since 1999, their supporters outnumbered all the other teams' and helped to create a carnival atmosphere.

That proved beneficial, as it went down to the wire before Bridgwater were announced the winners by six points.

The gala started well for Bridgwater, with the first four events bringing three second places and one first. This helped to boost confidence for the rest of the team and set the tone for the remainder of the races.

In the end, Bridgwater gained 17 first places, eight seconds and numerous other good results from the 52 events. Their swimmers clocked a total of 24 personal-best times (including relays), bringing their tally throughout the Cotswold programme to 97.

They won as a result of tremendous swims by various swimmers. too numerous to mention individually, but, above all, because of the unrivalled teamwork and support given by all on the day.

Victory was a fitting reward for all the swimmers' hard work and determination under the coaching of Mark Rawle, who has been in his post only since January.

He said: "I am extremely proud of all the swimmers and what they have achieved in the short time I have been with the club. I am sure that, with continued hard work, they will improve and perform even better at future events."

The evening was slightly tinged with sadness, and tears were shed, as the team celebrated because they had to say goodbye to two of their senior members.

Adrian Sureshkumar leaves to take up a new job within Formula 1 motor-racing and Bridgwater ASC wish him every success in the future.

It was also the last team competition in which Amy Pring would compete for the club before she starts her new life in Australia with her parents, Mark (club chairman) and Lyn and sisters Roxanne and Danielle.

Anyone interested in joining Bridgwater Amateur Swimming Club should contact Angie McArthur, membership secretary on (01278) 422739.

Bridgwater Mercury 2:57pm Friday 16th May 2008