Saturday 13th December saw Team Ojays at Crook Log for the Final gala of the National Arena League.
Things got off to an exciting start with the relay events and our first win of the evening which was delivered by the undefeated boys 9/11 years 4 x 50m free team.
With another 7 first places throughout the gala and numerous top 3 places Ojays were placed in 3rd position for most of the gala with just a few points between Erith, Canterbury, East Grinstead and ourselves. The final two races were the ladies and mens 6 x 50m free relay and what an exciting climax to the evening - the roof of Crook Log was almost raised with the noise poolside. Our ladies finished second in a very close race and the men finished first with just a finger nail between us and Erith - just goes to show how important that finish is! The evening finished to the time honoured roar led by past captain James May of "give us an O.... " A very exciting finish to the National Arena league this year with Ojays in 4th place with just 3 points between us and second place. Well done swimmers - thanks for the great entertainment for spectators and the team poolside. Thanks to the "old boys" who return from university and work commitments to race for us, to the team of helpers poolside (Sandra, Julie and Vanessa ) and to officials Yvonne, Mandy, Karen and Fran. Last but of course not least thanks to head coach Sergio.
6th & 7th December ASA Regions and GNSC Open
Monday 15th December 2014
The 6th & 7th of December was a busy weekend for Team Ojays. Exams and illness aside the club had two target competitions set for this training cycle. London ASA Regionals held at the Aquatic Centre where nine of our fastest and more experienced swimmers swam in this very competitive event achieving good performance all round and some excellent pbs.
Gravesend Open saw 20 swimmers competing in over 100 events again producing many pbs, medals and those all-important Kent times.
Well done to all the swimmers who competed in both events and also thank you to helpers, officials, parents and coaches who supported these successful events.
New Post Box for Gala Entries
Wednesday 10th December 2014
Some off you may be aware of the new Post Box which has been recently acquired which has now been fixed adjacent to the Trophy cabinet in The Walnuts reception area. It will be emptied on a regular basis so all entries should be received on time and not go missing until two weeks later as some have in the past.
PLEASE make sure you put the contents into an envelope first and mark it appropriately. Model Yvonne Ridley is pictured using the box for the first time !!
Club Champs 2014
Tuesday 2nd December 2014
The grand finale of this years club championships was held on Saturday evening at Trinity school from Tadpoles to masters - all squads were represented and what a fun evening it was.
It's always great to see our young tadpoles competing in a gala for the first time - the older swimmers are always on hand to guide them through and to ease their nerves. Masters were ably represented by Gina Charleston, Tracey van Rooyen and Mandy Jackson - well done ladies - fantastic performances.
Congratulations to Molly Haynes who was presented with the Keighley Mayes Trophy for Perseverance and Endeavour from president of the Kent ASA Kathy Hook - see picture.
It all culminated in the skins event which has the top 6 swimmers from the 200im competing against each other. Congratulations to Boys : Jake McDonnell, Samuel Gaster, Ollie Randall, Ben Strover, James Waller& Callum Baronti and the girls : Katie Napier, Molly Haynes, Daniella Shipley, Elizabeth Bennett, Clio Bacon & Chloe Ashley. After that sparkly fly ball kept being pulled out of the bag for the girls - Katie Napier won for the girls and Ollie Randall for the boys -well done!
Thanks to all of our officials and band of willing volunteers who without your help we wouldn't be able to host any of these galas - and of course to our coaches Sergio, Clare, Dave and Shauna. All there's left to do now is to make sure you have your ticket to the presentation evening to help celebrate the swimmers achievements.
Kent Junior League Round 2
Thursday 20th November 2014
After a last minute change of venue the second round of the KJL was held at Downham Leisure Centre on the 15th November. Once the gala finally got underway after a few technical hitches Ojays found they had some stiff competition in the form of Dover Lifeguard, Saxon Crown, Dartford, Bexley and Black Lion.
It was an evening full of great swims, new pbs and exciting team relays including the ultimate event of the evening - the squadron relay – it’s surprising anyone had a voice left after all the cheering for their team mates.
Congratulations to everyone who swam and special mentions to our first place swimmers : Niamh Laker – 13 yrs & under 100m free, girls 9/10 years 100m free relay team, Jessica Herbert - 10 yrs 50m free style & Callum Baronti - 11yrs 50m Fly.
Ojays finished a valiant 4th place.
Thanks as always to Head Coach Sergio, Coach Shauna, our team managers Sarah and Julie, timekeeper Trish, Judge Mandy and all parents and supporters.
Bexley Distance and Sprints Open
Thursday 20th November 2014
It was an early start for our long distance swimmers on the 16th November, taking advantage of a rare opportunity to compete in 800m free (girls) and 1500m (boys) free events in a 50m pool.
William Magee-Brown and Ben Strover completed the 1500m event both with PBs and a Regional Time for Ben. Daniella Shipley and Alice Bennett completed the 800m event again with PBs and a regional qualifying time for Daniella with Alice very narrowly missing her qualifying time.
Respect and congratulations to you all for competing in these tough long distance races.
Sessions 2 and 3 were 50m and 100m events and swimmers competing were: Louis Goff, Jessica Herbert, Daniella Shipley, Kate Ridley, Callum Baronti, Anna Cvetjan, Katie Napier, Eddie Sellar, Alicia Foreman, Clio Bacon, Jess Sellar and Amy Jeffreys. For some of the younger swimmers this was the first time competing in a 50m pool and despite the unusually cold conditions poolside and delayed session start times, swimmers performed admirably with pb’s and county qualifying times being achieved – well done team Ojays. Congratulations to our medal winners: Clio Bacon - Gold 100m breaststroke and Callum Baronti – Silver 50m Free, Gold 100m free and Gold 50m breaststroke.
Thanks to Sergio who endured the delayed start times and chilly poolside conditions to motivate and coach our team, to Yvonne for officiating and to all parents for their endurance during what was a very long day!
Billy wins 2 golds in Mexico
Friday 14th November 2014
Billy Birchmore, as many of you know, is in Mexico this week fighting it out at the DSISO World Championships. Battling illness and events being cancelled Billy is making his presence known.
In a closely fought battle with the reigning champion and world record holder Colin Marks of Australia, Billy burst pass on the final length to win gold in the 200m Free. He narrowly missed out by 0.01 of a second on 50m Fly, securing a silver medal. Billy also secured 4th places in 50m and 100m back.
On the final day of the competition Billy was on the podium again after taking gold in the 100m Fly and Silver in the 200m IM, making him a double World Champion!
Billy has also been 'adopted' by the Mexican press. Well done Billy and we all look forward to having you back swimming with us soon.
Siobhan completes the Ironman
Monday 10th November 2014
Congratulations to Siobhan Curtis (Masters Squad swimmer and Top Squad Yoga instructor) who completed the incredible Ironman event in Brazil yesterday. She finished 10th in her age group in an incredible time of 12 hours 55 minutes and 19 seconds. Siobhan reports that she finished injury free which is great news and can't wait for the next one!!!
The race consists of a 3.8km swim, followed immediately by a 180km bike ride (which is twice the length of the famous London to Brighton bike ride) and then finishing off with a full marathon run of 42.2km/26 miles.
An incredible and inspirational achievement Siobhan, well done from us all!
Another successful weekend for our swimmers competing in the Fireworks Open last weekend. 27 of our swimmers participated in over 100 events giving their very best accompanied by our parent's loud cheering.
The event ran smoothly with 63 top six positions, 13 first, 16 seconds, 11 third - 51 pbs and a few Kents times plus it was a fun weekend - what more could a Head Coach ask for!
Congratulations to the swimmers competing in this event: Clio Bacon, Callum Baronti, Matilda Barrett, Jessica Bridges, Lilli Cutajar, Samuel Gaster, Emily Goff, Ellie Harden, Jessica Herbert, Amy Jeffreys, Niamh Laker, Ben Langdown, Rachel Langdown, Abby Leeves, Elizabeth Marsch, Katie Napier, Ella Norwood, Eve Peel, Max Peel, Edward Sellar, Jessica Sellar, Emily Smith, Abigail Stanton, Isabelle Stanton, Ben Strover, Chloe Waller and Will Dennis.
Special thanks goes to parents, officials and volunteer who helped to make this weekend a success. Also, to our hosts Erith & District SC for a well run meet.
Well done Team Ojays!
Disability World Championships Mexico
Saturday 8th November 2014
Good Luck to Billy Birchmore and Team GB looking to secure pbs and a few medals in Mexico this week. Billy is swimming 100m & 200m free, 50m & 100m fly, 50m & 100m back and just for good measure 100m and 200m IM. Plus he is in the relays!
NO HAY BRONCA for Billy (Mexican for 'no problem').
Details of new competition structure effective 201
Thursday 30th October 2014
The ASA has released details of a new swimming competition structure that will provide greater opportunities for swimmers to experience national competitions, and to create an aligned competition calendar across England, Scotland and Wales to help coaches support developing athletes within a defined period of training and competition phases. Programme and conditions for Kent County Championships for 2015 remain as published.
Further details have been posted under special info to the left of this posting.
Jack petchey - September's winner
Wednesday 29th October 2014
The Jack Petchey Achievement award winner for September is William Magee-Brown
William was nominated for his award for his constant hard work and his friendly and positive attitude.
His hard work has recently paid off with the results he has achieved in Club Championships.
He is always supportive at galas and always makes every effort in training to do his best.
Yoga Land Training
Tuesday 28th October 2014
Masters swimmer Siobhan Curtis has kindly offered to use her yoga teaching skills to benefit our top squad swimmers to take the place of their usual land training sessions after the half term holiday.
The benefits that Sergio and Siobhan believe that yoga will bring to the swimmers are: strength for improved pull, flexibility for longer reach and better kick, prevention of shoulder tightness, general stamina, breath and pre race nerves management.
Siobhan has been practising Ashtanga yoga for 14 years and has been teaching for two years, she teaches at Biggin Hill and the surrounding area and you can find her page on Facebook under the name "Yoga Bubbles". If you have any questions about yoga or her classes please see Siobhan poolside or at land training.
Thank you Richard
Tuesday 28th October 2014
Last night we said au revoir to Richard; a county and regional swimmer himself "back in the day" who brought his passion for swimming to Orpington Ojays in 2009 and has since then coached most of the competitive squads before becoming joint head coach with Sergio late last year.
His detail to technique and discipline has gained him success with county, regional and national swimmers and of course as Billy's coach, helping him to achieve so highly in his competitions.
It is testament to his popularity that on Saturday evening over 30 swimmers turned up to give him an Ojays send off meal at Hotel 7 Diner.
He has asked me to say thank you so much to everyone for the messages in his card and for the gifts and to say that he is quite overwhelmed by everyone’s kindness and generosity.
Good luck Richard in your future endeavours and thank you so much for all you have done for our swimmers and our club.
Orpington Ojays Swimmer Awarded Prestigious Kent A
Sunday 26th October 2014
Congratulations to Molly Haynes who has been selected for Kent ASA's "Keighley Mayes Trophy" which is awarded annually for Perseverance and Endeavour. This is a great honour and a well-deserved recognition for Molly who has given so many years to swimming - well done Molly.
National Arena League Round 1
Sunday 19th October 2014
October saw the first round of the National Arena League where each Club’s fastest swimmers compete in this prestigious team event. Once again our team of 32 swimmers stood up to the high standard of the competition swimming incredibly well achieving many personal bests.
The competition was really strong and Orpington Ojays gave it their best in and out of the pool where they swam strong and cheered loudly alongside our supportive parents. After a closely fought event Ojays managed to achieve 4th place overall securing 8 third places, 7 second places and, to top it all 2 first places thanks to Callum Baronti’s great butterfly race and our team of 11yr boys freestyle relay team composed of Eddie Sellar, Max Peel, Justin Strover and Callum Baronti.
Other great swims were delivered by: Justin Strover, James Waller, Michael Phillips, George Fisher, Jake McDonnell, Oliver Randall, Ben Strover ,Louis Goff, James Lawrence, Mike Bond, James May, Jamie Van Rooyen, Jessica Herbert, Matilda Barrett, Alice Bennett, Emily Smith, Anna Cvjetan, Clio Bacon, Niamh Laker, Jessica Sellar, Amy Jeffreys, Katie Napier, Daniella Shipley, Jessica Page , Lizzie Bennett, Chloe Ashley and Kate Ridley
A big thank you also goes to all coaches, parents, officials and helpers who supported this event and make it as successful and fun as it was.
Racing through the night
Tuesday 14th October 2014
Masters Matt Steere, Ben Cockburn & Niki Herbert entered the first UK Night Swimming Event. Held in the dark at Bray Lake, Maidenhead last Saturday night they spent some time as the sun set contemplating why they were about to swim in the dark. Having clipped a glow stick to their goggle elastic they went to the start area & looked for a course with 4 buoys dimly lit with more glow sticks. At 7.30pm 150 swimmers set off for either one lap of 750m or two for 1500m, the Ojays swimmers were all doing the 1500m.
Spectators got to see glow sticks wavering along the water as the swimmers set off! Matt quickly got towards the front & having lost his glow stick nearly tipped over a canoeist that hadn't seen him coming and had to negotiate a course he couldn't see. Ben & Niki had an easier swim being able to see a line of glow sticks from faster swimmers marking out the course.
Matt finished 1st in 19.06, Ben was 13th in 23.50 & Niki 36th in 26.30. The swim was organised by a company called Brutal Events - very apt!
John Carrie
Friday 10th October 2014
It is very sad to report on the death of John Carrie at the start of the week.
John Carrie was a lovely man. He was a prominent figure in the world of swimming, always giving his time to help swimmers and officials. Many people within swimming often used John as an expert point of reference and he never failed to give the correct answer. He was a larger than life character and even as his health deteriorated he still managed to help at many events. He will be sadly missed by all but will always be remembered. Swimming has lost one of its true heroes.
This weekend was the annual Ojays Open Gala – the Seasons Starter and what a fantastic start to the season it was too - the event was very well supported by visiting clubs and we thank them for their continued support.
Saturday early evening started off with the 400 freestyle 200 breastroke, 200IM and 200 fly – it was then off for a good night’s sleep before back at the pool at 8.30am for a full day of competition.
Team Ojays were a team to be reckoned with poolside with swimmers from Bronze through to Top squad participating. Masses of PBs, Medals and even some speeding tickets (swims faster than the Upper qualifying time) were awarded and it was great to see all ages bonding poolside as a team. The team were delighted to be awarded Top Club and to receive the shield back from Bromley, last year’s winners and OOJSC’s Kate Ridley was awarded Top Girl. Congratulations everyone - you swam fast, cheered loudly and made your family and coaches very proud of you and hopefully enjoyed yourselves too!
As with all galas we really couldn’t pull it off without the help of our volunteers who worked tirelessly Saturday evening and all day Sunday poolside, providing refreshments and on the door selling raffle tickets and admission. It was great to see new parents learning the complexities of hosting a gala from the more experienced parents and delivering a well-run and enjoyable gala.
Finally thanks of course to our coaches Richard, Sergio and Clare for all your hard work poolside.
Results will be posted soon.
Poole 3k sea swim
Sunday 28th September 2014
On Saturday morning Steve Morris and Siobhan Curtis headed down to Poole for the Human Race sea swim. Both Masters squad swimmers had entered the 3k distance for their first sea race. Siobhan was using the event as a sea training session for her ironman event in Brazil in a few weeks! Steve came in 7th overall (190 swimmers) in 45 mins and 49 seconds putting him 4th in age group and Siobhan came in 1 hours 6 mins and 14 seconds putting her 142nd and 4th age group. Great swims and a great event.
The first gala of the season and the penultimate round of the Whitehorse league saw, once again, Orpington Ojays showing their toughness and resilience.
With a reduced team and with many young swimmers swimming up an age-group Ojays managed to get many pbs, 3 first places, 6 second places, 10 third places and 1 speeding ticket bringing our team to 4th place.
Congratulations to all our swimmers whose effort and team spirit was impressive, our judges, timekeeper and poolside helpers a without whom the gala couldn't have taken place and finally to parents for being loud cheerful and supportive.
Well done Team Ojays!
Club Champs
Saturday 20th September 2014
The club champs kicked off on Monday evening with the 100m BS and 200m BC. Some great swims from the swimmers with lots of PBs. The results are available from the homepage or the results section from the menu and some photos of a handful of swimmers are in the Photo Gallery, again from the main menu.
Dart 10k Open Water
Saturday 20th September 2014
Well done to our brilliant Masters swimmer Niki Herbert who took part in the Dart 10k.
The Dart 10k is a stunning 10km swim down the River Dart in Devon organised by the Outdoor Swimming Society. For once, the swim is not a race, but a journey: all swimmers can swim at their own pace, from leisurely to fast, as they wind their way downstream through the rolling hills of Devon.
Distance wise this is the aquatic equivalent of a marathon, and is forecast to become the new challenge distance for swimmers - so get into training now! There is an elite category for those who like to race, but for most swimmers it's about doing the distance, and enjoying the ride.
This is how the organisers describe the course: 'it's a beautiful swim in brackish water. Swimmers are flanked by rolling Devon hills the whole way, with an estuary's curious mix of sea and fresh water, bladder rack and oak leaves, oyster catchers and kingfishers'. Sounds beautiful and no mention of chlorine!
Niki completed the Dart 10km on Sunday 14th along with 814 other swimmers. They were set off in 4 waves, 15 minutes apart, with the fastest waves at the back. Niki was in the 3rd wave and the swim began nicely, the first 4km was with her wave and the river was calm & smooth although there were far more lumps of flotsam (logs, branches, weeds) than she realised. At 4km she stopped at a refuelling pontoon for a couple of handfuls of jelly babies. The next refuelling station was at 7km. Between 4-7km it was harder swimming, she was catching up & overtaking the slower waves as well as trying to sight. After more jelly babies at 7km it was time for some very hard swimming. The river had turned into a wide estuary with other rivers joining, the water was rough & bumpy making the sighting of slower swimmers & the course very difficult. Niki finished in an amazing 2hrs, 41 mins, and placed 218th out of 702 finishers. At the finish line she was greeted with tea & energy bars; there were bbqs, picnics & music too. A great swim & the highlight of her open water swimming this year saying it is well worth any swimmers having a go!
More pics in the photo gallery
ASA's National Disability Swimmer
Saturday 20th September 2014
A massive congratulations and well done to Billy Birchmore on being awarded the ASA's National Disability Swimmer of the Year!
Captains' Gala 2014
Saturday 13th September 2014
Well done to all the team's that took part in last week's Captain's Gala: Isabelle's 'Minter-Paye's Manta-Rays' Louis' 'Lightening Bolts', Captain Chlo's Crew and to the winning team Ridley's Rockets. Amazing corkscrews, dragon boat and tandems. Great fun was had by everyone - well done captains on great posters and teamwork.
New Captains
Tuesday 2nd September 2014
Congratulations to Chloe Ashley on becoming Captain for 2014/15 and to Issie Minter-Paye, Kate Ridley and Louis Goff on becoming Vice Captains.
Matt Steere wins again at Marlow
Tuesday 26th August 2014
On Sunday morning four Masters squad swimmers Matt Steere, Steve Morris, Ben Cockburn and Jay Walker headed to Marlow for the Human Race 3k open water swim. Matt had already won two earlier events in the series, Hampton Court and Windsor so pressure was on for a third. Matt's hard training each week paid off and he again claimed victory, this time by two seconds, finishing in an impressive 39 minutes and 4 seconds. Steve Morris was next home for the club in 48 minutes 25 seonds, finishing in 15th place overall, 10th male and 2nd in the 40-44 male age group. Ben Cockburn finished in 50 minutes 26 seconds placing him 20th overall, 14th male and 2nd in the 20-24 male age group. Jay Walker finished in 59 minutes 28 seconds which placed her 51st overall, 14th female and 3rd in the 35-39 female age group.
Very impressive that all four of our swimmers finished in the top 3rd of the tough River Thames race.
Success for Orpington Ojays as Swimmers Shine at B
Thursday 24th July 2014
Another great weekend in the last event of the season for Team Ojays at Basildon Open where 24 swimmers (a handful shown here) including some new to long course competitions, represented the Club in over 100 events delivering many pbs as well as achieving 9 gold, 10 silver, 3 Bronze, 13 fourth, 8 fifth, 13 sixth places.
Well done to our swimmers for competing with great success:
Alessio Tutt, Anna Cvjetan, Ben Strover, Callum Baronti, Clio Bacon, Daniella Shipley, Ed Pauling, Ed Sellar, Elizabeth Marsch, Ella Norwood, Ellie Harden, Emily Smith, Justin Strover, Kate Ridley, Katie Napier, Lilli Cutajar, Max Peel, Sam Gaster, Singh Sanhu Sahib, Tamryn Van Selm, Thomas Bennett, Thomas Magee Brown and William Magee Brown.
Congratulations for superb swims go to:
Anna Cvjetan 2 Bronze in 100 and 200 fly and 1 Silver in 200 backstroke, Ben Strover with 2 silver in 50 and 400 freestyle and Gold in 200 IM, Callum Baronti Silver in 200 fly, Clio Bacon Silver in 100 Breaststroke, Daniella Shipley Sliver in 200 IM, Ed Pauling Silver in 50 breaststroke and 50 fly and Gold in 50 and 200 free and 200 backstroke and 200 IM, Ed Sellar Silver in 400 free, Katie Napier Gold in 400 IM, Silver in 100 backstroke and Bronze in 50 Back, Tamryn Van Selm Gold in 200 and 400 free and 200 backstroke.
Thanks to parents and officials for supporting this great event.
Matt Steere wins Hampton Court
Monday 21st July 2014
Early on Sunday morning Matt, Jay, Siobhan and Will headed to Hampton Court for the Human Race open water race down the river Thames. The link to the report below describes brilliantly how Matt won the race in 41mins! Jay followed in 1:01, Siobhan in 1:08 and Will in 1:12. Fantastic swims for all and wonderful to have the club so well represented at another swimming discipline.
Whilst Matt Steere was winning in the Thames Steve Morris was waiting for the tide to fill The Camel Estuary with water for the annual Padstow to Rock swim in Cornwall. Having been told during the safety briefing and in pre-event emails it is not a race it is a challenge all the swimmers in the "elite" wave were definitely treating it as a race. With a RLNI boat leading the way creating too much wake and the usual rough and tumble during the start, getting into the stroke wasn't easy. Once clear though and into a rhythm it was a great "race". Steve was out of the water in second place in about 18 minutes after a sprint finish with third to receive his bottle of water, a Rick Stein pasty and a pint of Doom Bar. (Things are different in the west country.)
Swimmer of the Year Nomination for Birchmore
Monday 14th July 2014
Congratulations to Billy Birchmore who has been nominated for ‘Disability Swimmer of the Year’ alongside many Paralympic Champions.
Billy spent last weekend at Reading competing at the May Philips National Championships when he found out the good news. As we have come to expect from Billy, he did not disappoint winning 100m fly and 100m free. He also gained 2 silvers in 50 free and 50 fly. Controversially losing out to the world mosaic champion in 50m free - althoughthe video actually shows he did win!
Billy is shown here with Phelipe Rodrigues S10 Paralympic champion after his nomination.
London Sprints
Sunday 13th July 2014
14 swimmers braved the dinosaurs on Saturday and ventured to Crystal palace for the London Sprints. For many it was their first appearance at this gala. Everyone swam out of their skins and all swimmers, in true Ojays spirit, shouted loudly for their team mates. There were some PBs whilst medals/places went to Callum Baronti with two bronze and two 4th places, Tamryn Van Selm placed in Free, Fly and Back, Jess Sellar placed in Back and Katie Napier received bronze in Fly and placed in Back. Other swimmers were Eddie Sellar, Samuel Gaster, Beth Marsch, Amy Jefreys, Alice Bennett, Lilli Cutajar, Anna Cvjetan, Matilda Barrett, Rachel Langdown and Ellie Harden.
Well done to everyone for a great morning of competition!!
White Horse League Round 2
Wednesday 9th July 2014
Another great weekend for Orpington Ojays on Saturday 5 july at Crook Log for the second round of the Whitehorse League.
Despite the high competitive standard of the event once again Team Ojays showed in this sprint gala the true potential of our swimmers individually and as a team. Loud as ever, swimmers and parents cheered the many pbs produced throughout the evening giving Ojays 5 first places, 11 second places 8 third places finishing third overall by 7 points from second place. We are sitting second overall by just 3 points to Sevenoaks.
Congratulations to all swimmers participating:
Jessica Herbert, Tamryn Van Selm, Anna Hawkins, Jamie Van Rooyen, Lilli Jones, Clio Bacon, Rachel Langdown, Ellie Harden, Emily Smith, Jessica Sellar, Amy Jeffreys, Daniella Shipley, Kate Ridley, Alexandra Sandeman, Chloe Ashley, Justin Strover, Edward Pauling, Eddie Sellar, Connor Martin, Callum Baronti, Max Peel, James Waller, Nam Nguyen, Joshua Martin, Thomas Bennett, Ben Strover, Samuel Gaster, William Magee-Brown, Matt Steere, James Lawrence, Chris Miles, Sam Harvey.
Well done all for the great achievements and thanks to officials and poolside helpers and coaches who helped making this event successful and fun.
Success at the Sevenoaks Junior Aquathlon
Monday 7th July 2014
On Sunday 6th July the Ojays were out representing their club at Tonbridge School at the Sevenoaks Junior Aquathlon - a swim and run event - differing distances dependant on age category.
They really did the club proud - many congratulations to you all :
Eddie Sellar and Tamryn Van Selm came first and second respectively in their category (tristar 1) Callum Baronti came 5th in his category (tristar 2) and Jessica Sellar added to the family success by also coming first in her category (tristar 3).
The event was really enjoyable and very well organised by the Sevenoaks Tri club.
London Youth Games 2014
Monday 7th July 2014
Six of Orpington Ojays finest were chosen to represent their Boroughs in this year London Youth Games, sponsored by Balfour Beatty. Apart from fast swimming we also saw fast running: Jess Sellar and Justin Strover led the charge in the cross country event for Bromley, Daniella Shipley took part in the Aquathon for her borough, Bexley, and in swimming both boroughs were represented with Molly Haynes and Kate Ridley flying the navy and pink colours of Bromley and Issie Minter-Paye Bexley green.
Teams from both boroughs did exceptionally well with Bromley winning the swimming and overall across all events finishing 4th with Bexley closely behind in 5th position.
Thank you to sponsors Balfour Beatty for supporting these games and borough organiser and coach Sarah and Simon.
Skins 2014
Monday 7th July 2014
Congratulations to the winners of the ‘Skins’ event – Rebecca Shipley and Ben Strover, in a closely fought final, both won by a finger-tip narrowly beating Katie Napier and Josh Martin respectively and, each picking up a trophy and a prize fund!
Congratulations also to the other qualifiers Kate Ridley, Alice Bennett, Liz Bennett, Jess Page and for the boys Thomas Bennett, Samuel Gaster, William Magee-Brown and James Waller.
Thank you to all the parents and swimmers who cheered and gave their support from the gallery and to officials Yvonne and Karen and coach Richard.
Jack Petchey Winner June
Sunday 29th June 2014
Well done to Lili Jones for receiving her Award from Jack Petchey.
Lili was nominated for her award for her constant hard work and her friendly and positive attitude. She is always supportive at galas and always makes every effort in training.
Jack Petchey Winner May
Sunday 29th June 2014
Well done to Lauren Gough for her Award.
Lauren was nominated for her award for her dedication she has shown towards her swimming. She shows willingness to improve and is rarely without a smile on her face.
Tom Daley Joins Orpington Ojays!
Sunday 29th June 2014
Top and Platinum had a fantastic time training once again at the best facility in the country - The London Aquatic Session. Starting off with yoga and stretching, swimmers quickly moved on to a demanding set led by Head Coach Sergio. As usual swimmers worked hard, trained well and got a lot out of the session.
Joining the team at poolside was Tom Daley who shared some of his tips, plans and aspirations - a big thank you to Tom for taking time out to join us.
There are a few more photos in the photo gallery.
Jack Petchey Winner May
Sunday 29th June 2014
Well done to Lauren Gough for her Award.
Lauren was nominated for her award for her dedication she has shown towards her swimming. She shows willingness to improve and is rarely without a smile on her face.
Super Sunday for Swimmers at Saxon Crown
Monday 23rd June 2014
Instead of basking in the glorious sunshine and watching the football, four determined swimmers took themselves off to Saxon Crown and what a result! Congratulations go to Samuel Gaster, William Magee-Brown, Beth Marsch & Ellie Harden.
Medals won:
50m Freestyle: Samuel Gaster (3rd Bronze} William Magee-Brown (4th place) Ellie Harden ( 1st Gold)
50m Butterfly: Beth Marsch (4th) Ellie Harden (6th) William Magee-Brown (5th) Samuel Gaster (3rd Bronze)
50m Backstroke: William Magee-Brown (4th) Ellie Harden (3rd Bronze)
50m Breaststroke: Samuel Gaster (4th) Beth Marsch (3rd Bronze) Ellie Harden (5th)
200 IM: William Magee-Brown (4th)
All 4 swimmers achieved fantastic PBs, and unlike England, made it into the finals in all events! Once they secured a place in the finals they all went onto win medals and achieved further PBs. Thank you swimmers - fantastic result for you and the club and thank you parents for your support.
Olympic Park Swimming
Sunday 22nd June 2014
On the longest day of the year the Aquatics Centre played host to the Club's first long course training session. These demanding sessions really test our swimmers and push their fitness and stamina to new levels. The overall verdict of the pool and the session was extremely positive and swimmers are looking forward to returning next week. Sessions will be organised for junior squads when we return for the new season in September.
Olympian Nick Gillingham takes a Masterclass
Wednesday 18th June 2014
Monday night training made way for a two 90 minutes masterclass sessions with double Olympic medallist Nick Gillingham. Not only a double Olympic medallist swimmer Nick is a former World, European and Commonwealth Champion setting 3 World, 10 European, 9 Commonwealth and 17 British Records for his breaststroke events. Nick represented GBR for 13yrs and held the National Record for 24 years and ranks as one of the most consistent championship performers British Swimming has ever produced. Three consecutive European Titles, Commonwealth and World Gold medals combined with World Records and Olympic Silver and Bronze medals in an amazing seven year run from 1988 to 1994. He is also a World Masters Champion and Record Holder.
After an introduction from Nick and a quick photo session with club members, the Mayor of Bromley, Julian Bennington, and the Olympic medals the first session begun. Focusing on Freestyle and Backstroke with a six lane squad of all ages, Nick broke the strokes down for the swimmers, and our coaches, with a series of drills with insights and tips. Starts for both strokes were also part of the sessions with a couple of demonstrations by our captain Lizzie Bennett. The second session of the evening was for Butterfly and Nicks number one stroke Breaststroke. Nick again took the strokes back to basics with drills but this time did the demonstrations himself for both strokes.
A very approachable champion who everyone enjoyed having at our club for the evening. A massive thank you to Nick and to all involved in making the evening possible and to West Wickham Underwater Hockey club for allowing us to overrun into their pool time.
It was the second weekend for one of the most important target events of the year for Orpington Ojays age group swimmers.
Callum Baronti got Team Ojays off to a great start in the boys 100 breaststroke and had a fantastic race with a huge personal best that qualified him through to the final where he finish 10th. In the afternoon Callum swum in the 200 individual medley and once again producing a substantial long course personal best time. Anna Cvjetan swum in the girls 100 backstroke, where she had an exceptional swim, smashing her long course pb and adding to a great swim the week before in the 200 back. Katie Napier also represented the club on the 100 back, which was one of many swims for her at the year's competition. This proved to be a solid performance but even better was to come in the 200 IM on the following day being Katie's last but most successful event of the weekend. Georgina Baxter-Smith was back for her second weekend of competition and swum in the 100 breaststroke, although slightly off the pace in this event she came back to swim in her concluding race of the weekend to produce a substantial long course personal best in the girls 200 individual medley. Both Josh Martin and Ben Stover Swum in the boys 100 mtr backstroke; Ben had his best swim of the championships and smashed his long course personal best by several seconds. Josh also swum well in this event which added to his success in the 200 back from the previous week when he was not far off the national qualifying time and made the final.
Well done to all the swimmers who swum at the major competition and the support shown by all the parents who attended and helped poolside.
BAGcats - Weekend 1
Saturday 14th June 2014
An early start for Team Ojays at the first weekend of the BAGcats ( British Age Group category) , otherwise known as ‘The Regionals’, held last weekend at the Aquatic Centre in Stratford – all ready to prove themselves in one of the most important target events of the year.
After a good warm up it was time to start! First on the block our boys relay team Joshua Martin, Jake Mc Donnell, Oliver Randal, Ben Strover gave a good shot improving their long course personal bests and coming 10th overall.
Soon after our boys were ready for their next race. Joshua Martin and Ben Strover were on the block ready for the 100 freestyle. Both swam a great race improving their long course pb.
Katie Napier gave everything in her 100 butterfly setting up a new long course pb in her first 50 of her race and despite the long course pool she managed a small improvement to her long course time.
Soon after the start of the second session Ojays was represented in the boys 200 backstroke by Oliver Randall and Joshua Martin who both made the final with impressive pbs finishing 10th and 8th respectively.
Last event of the second session saw our young relay team with Anna Cvjetan, Lilli Cutajar, Clio Bacon and Katie Napier who gave their best competing in the Girl 4x100 Freestyle relay coming 24th in the region and improving their long course pbs. The afternoon concluded with two great swims from Georgina Baxter-Smith and Clio Bacon in the girls 200 Breaststroke where they swam impressive races beating their long and short course pb in the 50, 100 and 200. Unfortunately Clio moved on the block and got dq nonetheless set up high standard for herself in this event.
The second day of competitions was opened by Anna Cvjetan, Amy Jeffreys, Katie Napier and Clio Bacon competing and improving their pbs in the Girls 4x100 Medley Relay splits. Anna Cvjetan swam soon after in the Girls 200 backstroke improving her recent long course time by 5 seconds and splitting faster than her 100 long course pb! Katie Napier was next in the water in the same event. Despite the safety pace of the first part of her race Katie managed to swim near her pb and keep a good pace in the second part finishing her race around her converted short course pb.
Last event of the weekend was the Boys 200 Breaststroke where Callum Baronti swam a great race improving his 50 and 100 and 200 pb.
Well done to all our swimmers who swam in this high standard event and thanks to parents who cheerfully supported our Club in these competitions.
Good luck to all at the next and last weekend.
Winners at the Maritime Gala
Sunday 8th June 2014
After weekends of travelling the South East, some of Orpington Ojays 12 and under team finally had a local gala and what a difference it made! Saturday night saw us competing with our junior team in the Sevenoaks swimming club annual Maritime Trophy Gala. Due to fantastic dedication and commitment from our swimmers we put out a full team and never looked back. From the first event Ojays were dominating the gala and with help from swimmers poolside and parents up in the gallery our success continued.
Orpington ojays managed an impressive 25 first places out of 50 events and lots more pbs coming in. It all came down to the last event with one of two Sevenoaks teams putting up a good fight to be crowned winners. We managed to win the last squadron which was fantastic to watch and all credit must go to the swimmers who supported and swam brilliantly last night to bring home the Maritime trophy! The looks on their faces were priceless! Well done team Ojays you were fantastic!
Congratulations to the winning team:
Alessio Tutt, Joshua Crawford, Samantha Jackson, Eve Peel, Sofia Ouarbya, Eleanor Donne, Jessica Herbert, Emily Goff, Isabelle Stanton, Alice Howe, Ben Langdown, Will Dennis, Noah Saunders, Kaci Baverstock, Abby Leeves, Evie Mcdonald, Anna Hawkins, Jacob Bryant, Jack Mcleod, Niall Ridell, Michael Tamiru, Alicia Foreman, Ellie Harden, Beth Marsch, Abi Stanton, Max Peel, George Fisher and Ryan Mansbridge.
Thank you to Dave Langdown for timekeeping, Gina for being judge and Clare as coach.
Clare
Open Water in Windsor
Friday 6th June 2014
Matt Steere, continuing his success from the 10k at Eton, joined Jay Walker from Masters Squad at Windsor to compete in the 2700m race. Matt came 1st out of 184 swimmers in a tough race beating 2nd place by just 6 seconds in a time of 31 minutes 15 seconds. Jay Walker finshed 101st overall and was the 22nd female in 50 minutes 43 seconds.
Congratulations to you both!
Erith and District Master Open Meet
Sunday 1st June 2014
Sunday 1st of June saw swimmers and officials head to Crook Log for a short course Masters Meet. Mandy Baronti, Gina Charleton, Steve Morris and Matt Steere all took part in a very enjoyable Sunday afternoon. Special thanks to Matt for joining us to make a relay team after winning the 3k Open Water event held in the morning in The Thames at Windsor. Matt, making a late on the day entry, also took 1st place in the 100 metres freestyle as well! With season best times all round and meeting up with distant past Orpington Swimming Club coaches still swimming it was a great fast paced meet for a Sunday afternoon. There are a selection on photos in the photo gallery.
National Junior Arena League
Monday 26th May 2014
Orpington Ojays’ 12 and under swimmers travelled the distance to Enfield for the second round of the National Junior Arena League. With the Kent Junior league being held the night before in Dover we had a somewhat depleted team for this round, however Orpington Ojays put out an ever cheerful team out. We had some excellent swims and some big improvements on last rounds placings and pbs. We were up against some very big and very good clubs most of which put out their A team and despite all this Orpington were still the noisiest club there! I would like to congratulate the team on creating such a positive team atmosphere, you were a credit to the club and really made everyone proud the way you pulled together as a team.
Swimmers competing were: Eleanor Donne, Katie Gough, Blythe Jolley-Ellis, Samantha Jackson, Will Dennis, Alessio Tutt, Noah Saunders, Sahib Sandhu, Ben Langdown, George Harris-Andrews, Emily Goff, Julia Kinsella, Alice Howe, Jessica Herbert, Tom Magee-Brown, Ellie Harden, Alicia Foreman, Jessica Bridge, Max Peel, Ryan Mansbridge, Ella Norwood, Rachel Langdown, Lauren Gough, Tom Wilcox, Nam Nguyen, Quinn Cleary and Michael Phillips.
Special thank you to Blythe, Eleanor Donne, Julia Kinsella, Tom Magee-Brown, Rachel Langdown and Tom Wilcox for stepping in at last minute to help their team out. Also a big well done to Ellie Harden for her 2nd place in the individual and to our youngest swimmer Samantha Jackson for swimming an excellent length of butterfly to come 4th!
Due to difficulties securing a suitable pool to hold the final round of the competition the organisers of the league have moved the start time of the 3rd round to a later time and to a pool near Hatfield. This means a long journey for our young swimmers and a late bedtime. Therefore, and with much regret, the coaches have decided to withdrawn from the the last heat and hope that parent are supportive of this decision. On a happier note there are more galas coming up - including race night on July 13th, and parents should continue to check the website.
Clare
Masters Squad head to Eton Dorney
Monday 26th May 2014
In typical Bank Holiday weather Katie Coad, Steve Morris and Matt Steere swam in the Human Race Open Water event at Eton Dorney.
Katie swam the 1500m without a wetsuit and finished 1st in her age group and 13th overall in 22 minutes 11 seconds. A fast paced race with just under 300 swimmers setting off together.
Steve and Matt entered the marathon 10k with 289 other swimmers; setting out to better last years results. Both gave an exhausting 100% and improved on their times this year. Steve finished in 2 hours 30 minutes beating last years time by 13 minutes. This placed him 2nd in his age group and 24th overall. Matt finished in 2 hours 19 minutes beating last years time by a couple of minutes. Matt finished 1st in his age group and 9th overall.
A coldish wet day for our spectator, Kerry, but enjoyable. There are a selection on photos in the photo gallery.
White Horse League Round 1
Sunday 25th May 2014
Orpington Ojays competed in the first round of this year’s White Horse League on Saturday 10th May at Crook Log.
Those representing the club were:-
Tamryn Van Selm, Georgina Baxter-Smith, Matilda Barrett, Abigail Leeves, Ed Sellar, Ed Pauling, Max Peel, Connor Martin, Justin Strover, Callum Baronti, Clio Bacon, Anna Cvjetan, Rachel Langdown, Alice Bennett, Lilli Cutajar, Emily Smith, James Waller, Nam Nguyen, Adam Cvjetan, Daniella Shipley, Katie Napier, Ben Strover, Joshua, Martin, Oliver Randall, Thomas Bennett, Kate Ridley, Chloe Ashley, Matt Steere, Mike Bond, James May
There were several of our younger swimmers experiencing this competition for the first time and they performed extremely well along with the rest of the team.
The club also saw the homecoming of some of its older swimmers returning from university and other work commitments to represent the club once again in this competition.
There were numerous top 3 finishes on the day and against strong opposition the club’s swimmers produced many outstanding performances and finished 2nd overall with 285 points.
Well done to all of the swimmers who represented Orpington Ojays and for the support from parents who gave up their time to assist with this gala.
British Learning Disability Swimming Championships
Monday 19th May 2014
Billy 'unstoppable' Birchmore claimed his 2nd National title of the year following on from the National Junior and Youth Disability Championships in Sheffield where he won the S14 100 Fly. Swimming last weekend at Cardiff International Pool Billy took the 200 IM Mencap LD National title. He also won gold in his category for 100 Fly with a PB of 1.18.20, finishing 4th overall and finished 6th in the 100 IM overall
Well done Billy and thanks to the coaches for all the good work they have put in.
Jack Petchey Achievement Awards
Thursday 15th May 2014
March's award winner is Lucy Glossop. Lucy recently took part in the 5km Swimathon for Sports Relief, swimming 5km in a fantastic time of 2hrs 7 mins.
Jack Petchey Achievement Awards
Thursday 15th May 2014
April's winner is Ellie Harden. Ellie was nominated for her swimming in the 5km Swimathon for Sports Relief, swimming 5km in a new PB of 1.33.34.Ellie is also dedicated to her training and always makes every effort to do her best.
Birchmore picks up gold at DSF European Open 2014
Monday 12th May 2014
Southampton is famous for its cruise ships to destinations all around the world as well as being the home of the Spitfire.
It has now become the annual destination for DSF’s annual European Open Swimming Championships and it was where Billy Birchmore picked up six gold medals.
GOLD – 50 back in a new European record of 37.72. GOLD 50 Fly, just outside the world record. GOLD 50 free in 31.11. GOLD 100 free. GOLD 200 free and a final GOLD in the relay.
If Billy hadn’t been Dq’d on the 100 fly turn it would have been seven gold medals (watch out Mark Spitz!) – never mind Billy, six gold medals in one weekend is enough to make anyone happy :)
Masterclass with Olympian Nick Gillingham MBE
Monday 12th May 2014
Orpington Ojays invites swimmers from Top, Diamond, Platinum & Gold Squads to join Nick on Monday June 16th at The Walnuts There are two sessions to chose from:
-First session concentrates on freestyle and backstroke plus some starts & turns.runs from 6.30pm-8pm – swimmers to be pool-side 6pm.
- Second session breaststroke and fly plus starts & turns runs from 8 - 9.30pm, swimmers should be ready to go pool-side by 7.50pm.
Please see flyer for further details. Spectators are very welcome
National Junior Arena League 2014 - Round 1
Sunday 11th May 2014
Sunday, 27th April saw a team of swimmers head to Barnet Copthall in North London for the first round of the National Junior Swimming League. The coaches had decided to use this opportunity to give our younger swimmers an opportunity to experience competing in a league gala that haven’t competed in one before. We knew this gala was going to be extremely tough but the swimmers were excited to have been picked and motivation remained high throughout the gala.
Competing in the M11 league we were up against some of the biggest teams in London and there were many talented swimmers of county, regional and national standard from those clubs. Our swimmers put in a sterling effort and came away with some huge PB’s. Competing were - Alessio Tutt, Noah Saunders, Will Dennis, Sahib Sandhu, Emily Goff, Alice Howe, Evie McDonald, Jessica Herbert, Isabelle Stanton, Katie Gough, Samantha Jackson, Niamh Hughes, Michael Phillips, Adam Cvjetan, Nam Nguyen, Quinn Cleary, Jessica Bridge, Niamh Laker, Ella Norwood, Alicia Foreman, Jacob Bryant, Kaci Baverstock, Ben Langdown, George Harris-Andrews, Abigail Stanton, Abigail Leeves, Ellie Harden, Beth Marsch, Max Peel and Cameron Allan.
Congratulations must go to Will Dennis, Samantha Jackson and Jessica Herbert for their 4th places. Ellie Harden, Alessio Tutt and the boys 9yrs freestyle team for their 5th places. Alice Howe, Niamh Hughes, Quinn Cleary and the boys 9yrs medley relay team for their 6th places.
Masterclass with Olympian Nick Gillingham MBE
Sunday 11th May 2014
Orpington Ojays invites swimmers from Top, Diamond, Platinum & Gold Squads to join Nick on Monday June 16th at The Walnuts There are two sessions to chose from:
-First session concentrates on freestyle and backstroke plus some starts & turns.runs from 6.30pm-8pm – swimmers to be pool-side 6pm.
- Second session breaststroke and fly plus starts & turns runs from 8 - 9.30pm, swimmers should be ready to go pool-side by 7.50pm.
Please see flyer for further details. Spectators are very welcome
Ojays' Mighty Masters at the Tonbridge triathlon
Thursday 8th May 2014
The sun shone for the second year running this Bank holiday weekend for two of our Masters swimmers competing in the Tonbridge triathlon. Siobhan Curtis entered the Olympic distance race and Mandy Baronti the sprint distance - both ladies showing the true grit and determination required of a triathlete but finishing with big smiles.
Curious to see what it was all about, Siobhan's husband Will, competed in the sprint distance in his first triathlon finishing in a very respectable time. Siobhan puts her PB time down to shunning the standard issue swim cap and competing in her super fast purple Ojays swim cap !
"Seeing that finish line and hearing friends and family cheering me on safe in the knowledge that I could actually stop running was the best feeling !" said Mandy " I didn't even swear that much at the hideous hills this time !"
Siobhan is training for an Iron man event in Brazil in November - we wish her luck with her training for the ultimate triathlon challenge.
Pictured with Mandy is her friend and training buddy Colette Gebbett who, luckily for Mandy, is a qualified Sports Therapist http://www.chelsfieldsportsmassage.co.uk/ and was able to treat her various aches and pains throughout training.
Well done ladies and good luck with your other events this summer!
Ojays' Mighty Masters at the Tonbridge triathlon
Thursday 8th May 2014
Siobhan and her support team!
Black Lion Open 3/4th May 2014
Wednesday 7th May 2014
Orpington Ojays' younger swimmers competed at the Black Lion Open, which proved to be nothing short of an outstanding performance by those who represented the club. There was a huge number of personal best times and regional times posted by those competing from a highly motivated and excited bunch of swimmers.
Those who competed were: Ben Langdown, Adam Cvjetan, Max Peel, Justin Strover, Georgina Baxter-Smith, William Magee-Brown, Thomas Bennett, Ben Strover, Joshua Martin, Anna Cvjetan, Emily Goff, Tamryn Van Selm, Rachel Langdown, Connor Martin, Nam Nguyen, Ellie Harden, Anna Hawkins,Emily Smith, Amy Jeffreys, Oliver Randall, Abigail Stanton, Callum Baronti, Lilli Cutajar, Alice Bennett, Edward Sellar, Alice Howe, Katie Napier and Isabelle Stanton.
Those finishing in the top 3 within their age group were: Tamryn Van Selm 10 yr age group:- 1st in the 50 and 100 back and the 50 fly. 3rd in the 50 free, 100 free. Anna Cvjetan 12 yr age group:- 2nd on 200 back, 3rd in the 100 back and 50 back,
Oliver Randall 14 yr age group:- 1st in 100 back and 100 fly, 2nd in 200 back, 3rd in 200 breast and 100 breast Georgina Baxter-Smith:- 11 yr age group 3rd in 200 fly. Alice Bennett:- 13 yr age group 3rd in 50 freestyle Callum Baronti 11 yr age group:-2nd in 50 fl, 3rd in 50 freestyle Justin Strover 10 yr age group:- 1st in 200 back Connor Martin 10 yr age group:- 3rd in 200 back Josh Martin 13 yr age group:- 1st in 200 back and 50 back, 2nd 100 IM Ben Strover 13 yr age group:- 3rd in 100 IM Katie Napier 14 yr age group:- 1st 100 free, 3rd in 100 free and Amy Jeffreys 14 yr age group: - 3rd 200 breast.
Fourth, fifth and sixth positions were also gained by: Amy Jeffreys, Katie Napier, Connor Martin, Justin Strover, Max Peel, Ben Strover, Oliver Randall, Ed Sellar, Rachel Langdown, Emily Smith, Georgina Baxter-Smith, Callum Baronti, Anna Hawkins, Josh Martin, Anna Cvjetan, Thomas Bennett, Josh Martin
And finally there were regional qualifying times posted by: Ben Strover, Josh Martin, Anna Cvjetan, Georgina Baxter-Smith, Callum Baronti, Oliver Randall and Katie Napier.
A fantastic achievement by all those who competed this weekend, well done to you all.
Thank you to all the officials who helped support this gala – without your support galas like these would not take place and Head Coach Richard for all his pool-side support.
London Youth Games 3rd & 4th May 2014
Monday 5th May 2014
Orpington Ojays girls were well represented at the London Regional Championships at the iconic London Aquatic Centre this weekend - Issie Paye, Daniella Shipley, Captains Lizzie Bennett and Chloe Ashley, Fay Gibson, Rebecca Shipley, Jessica Page, Molly Haynes , Kate Ridley and Alex Sandeman -well done girls!
Bonus- Tom Daley was training, and even wished them luck. Thank you to Karen Bennett and Yvonne Ridley and all the other officials for giving up there time over the weekend to ensure that events like these can go ahead - and finally to Head Coach Sergio for his support.
It was also a busy time for our 20 youngsters at Black Lion, full reports for both events to follow.
SE Division Primary Schools Relay Gala
Monday 28th April 2014
On Saturday evening the following Orpington Ojays were representing their school, Tubbenden, and Kent at the Spectrum Centre at Guildford: Eddie Sellar, Ryan Mansbridge and Callum Baronti - making up the team was their classmate Barnaby Spear.
The boys were swimming in the freestyle and medley relays competing against the qualifiers from surrounding counties.
Against very tough competition and exceeding expectations they pulled themselves up from a qualifying ranking of 13th to 6th in the freestyle and from 9th to 6th in the medley, earning themselves places in the finals for both events.
Huge congratulations to them all for an amazing performance - well done boys!
Easter Camp 2014
Sunday 27th April 2014
A physically demanding – and fun, in-house Easter Training Camp was attended by 30 of Orpington OJays best swimmers; aimed to prove their toughness and improve their technique, speed and endurance, and most of all the team spirit.
All tasks were successfully achieved by our swimmers who engaged well in common activities (such swimming) as well as new activities such as yoga and, for some of our younger swimmers, land training.
Team games and relays were just some of the outdoor activities organised and enjoyed by coaches and swimmers.
“This was a fabulous camp, Lili came home shattered but couldn’t wait to get back there the next day”.
Well done to all the swimmers who participated in the extra training prior to the chocolatey Easter weekend!
Thank you coaches Claire, Richard, and Sergio and also to Chair - Karen Bennett, for organising.
Easter Camp 2014
Sunday 27th April 2014
Some happy smiles from Platinum and Gold swimmers - taken before the session started :)
Swimathon 5k
Tuesday 25th March 2014
Another one of our young swimmers took on the mighty 5k challenge in this year's Swimathon. 11 year old Ellie Harden of Platinum squad successfully completed the course achieving a PB at the same time.
"The Swimathon was a fantastic experience which I have been taking part in since I was 9 years old. I have been working hard on my technique and times since joining Orpington Ojays a year ago. The hard work I put into my training is paying off where I achieved a 15 minute PB on last year’s time. My time achieved in 2014 was 1.33.34."
Kent Primary schools Final gala
Monday 24th March 2014
Saturday 22nd March saw the following Orpington Ojays swimmers representing their Primary schools at the finals gala for Kent Primary schools. Swimming for Tubbenden were Zoe White, Eddie Sellar, Ryan Mansbridge, Tamryn van Selm and Callum Baronti; representing Warren Road were Abigail Stanton, Jacob Bryant and Cameron Allan.
Tubbenden earnt podium places with Callum winning silver in 50 fly and the boy’s freestyle relay and medley relay - silver and bronze respectively. Tamryn finished fourth place in the 50 fly.
Warren Road had a 7th place for Abi in 50 free and a 9th place for Cameron in 50 back.
Congratulations to all swimmers representing their schools - it was odd to see them not wearing their Ojays colours poolside!
Pictured is the Tubbenden Team.
11 year old Lucy Glossop goes the distance
Monday 24th March 2014
Saturday evening saw Lucy Glossop from bronze-M take part in the Swimathon for Sport Relief. She swam 5km in a fantastic time of 2hrs 7mins, cheered on by huge support from her family and coach. Lucy paced herself brilliantly, ensuring that she did not slow down as the lengths tallied up and even more amazingly, her strokes did not deteriorate as she started to feel the effects of the distance. Afterwards, elated at having finished, she said “I think I’m going to pass out.” Hopefully, her recovery meal of Domino’s pizza and ice cream has prevented that!
Kent Report 2014 - Part 2
Wednesday 12th March 2014
OOJSC had over 30 swimmers competing at this year’s Kent County Championships, across all age groups from age 9 years through to 18 years. Seen here are the girls 15/16year relay team with Kathy Hook, President of ASA London Region. More photos honouring our champions will be posted shortly on the noticeboard, in the meantime here is the latest update.
Session 10 -11 (8th March 2014)
Matilda Barrett, Georgina Baxter-Smith, Rachel Langdown, Lilli Cutajar, Fay Gibson, Ben Strover, Josh Martin, Louise Goff, Holly Baronti, Katie Napier, Isabelle Minter-Paye, Elizabeth Bennett, Kate Ridley, Molly Haynes, Edward Pauling, Callum Baronti, Clio Bacon, Georgina Baxter-Smith all took part in what was the last full day of individual events at the championships. Once again Orpington Ojays was well represented with many of its swimmers competing.
Matilda Barrett got the club underway in the 9/14 years 50 backstroke, followed by Georgina Baxter-Smith, Rachel Langdown, Lilli Cutajar and Fay Gibson. Outstanding performances by all with each swimmer faster than their entry times and Fay Gibson achieved 6th place in the 14 year age group.
Next to represent the club were the boys in the 12/14 years 100 freestyle. Both Ben Strover and Josh Martin had great swims achieving new personal bests in this event. Louis Goff then swum in the 15-17/18 years 50 back posting a new personal best and dipping under 31 seconds, Holly Baronti then represented the club swimming in the 15-17/18 years 100 breaststroke.
The final swimmer from the morning’s session was Katie Napier in the 100 fly and once again it was another swimmer performing at their best and achieving a pb.
In the afternoon Louis Goff swum in the 15-17/18 yr 100 freestyle and had a fantastic swim going for the first time under the minute in this event. Next it was the turn of the girls in the 15-17/18 years 100 freestyle. Isabelle Minter-Paye, Lizzie Bennett, Kate Ridley and Molly Haynes all represented the club in this event and had impressive swims. Molly Haynes also achieved 5th place in the 17-18 year category in this event.
The boys 9/14 years 50 butterfly followed with Edward Pauling achieving 4th place in a new personal best time. Callum Baronti was next up in this event and swum superbly to become Kent County Champion in the 10 year age category and reducing his personal best time by nearly 2 seconds
The last individual event of the competition was the girls 9-14 years 200 breaststroke. In this event we had 2 swimmers from Orpington Ojay. Clio Bacon had an exceptional swim in this event reducing her personal best by more than 6 seconds in the 12 year age group and Georgina Baxter-Smith also achieved a personal best in the 10 year age group and a bronze medal in this event.
Congratulations to the following medallists:
Callum Baronti – 10 years 50 butterfly – 1st Gold Kent County Champion
Georgina Baxter–Smith - 10 years 200 breaststroke – 3rd Bronze
Edward Pauling – 9 years 50 butterfly – 4th
Molly Haynes - 17/18 yrs 100 freestyle - 5th
Fay Gibson -14 years 50 backstroke – 6th
Sessions 12 -13 (9th March 2014)
This was the last day of the championships. The club had already seen substantial success over the past few weeks and now it was time for relays!
The morning session was for the boys and the following swimmers represented Orpington Ojays for the team events:-
Joshua Martin, Jake McDonnell, Louis Goff, Benjamin Strover, Ed Pauling, Callum Baronti, Justin Strover, Max Peel, Thomas Bennett, Connor Martin, Samuel Gaster. The club competed in several relays as listed below and the 9/10 years team made the final in both the medley relay and freestyle relay. In the freestyle team they just missed out on third place in an exciting race where they finished fourth.
• Boys Junior 4 x 50 Medley team
• Boys 9/10 yr 4 x 50 freestyle team
• Boys 13/14 yr 4 x 50 freestyle team
• Boys 9/10 yr 4 x 50 Medley team
• Boys Junior 4 x 50 freestyle team
• Boys 13/14 4 x 50 Medley team
In the afternoon it was the time of the girls and the following swimmers represented the club:-
Fay Gibson, Daniella Shipley, Katie Napier, Alice Bennett, Lizzie Bennett, Chloe Ashley, Isabelle Minter-Paye, Kate Ridley, Lilli Cutajar, Clio Bacon, Anna Cvjetan, Emily Smith, Matilda Barrett, Georgina Baxter-Smith, Tamryn Van Selm, Jessica Herbert, Anna Hawkins.
The club competed in several relays as listed below and made finals in 3 events. The girls 9/10 years medley relay finished 4th, the girls 15/16 years medley relay finished 6th and the girls 15/16 years freestyle relay finished third in what was a very close finish.
• Girls Junior 4 x 50 freestyle team
• Girls 9/10 yr 4 x 50 Medley team
• Girls 13/14 yr 4 x 50 Medley team
• Girls 15/16 yr 4 x50 freestyle team
• Girls 11/12 yr 4 x 50 Medley team
• Girls 9/10 yr 4 x 50 freestyle team
• Girls Junior 4 x 50 Medley team
• Girls 13/14 yr 4 x 50 freestyle team
• Girls 15/16 yr 4 x 50 Medley team
• Girls 11/12 yr 4 x 50 freestyle team
Congratulations to the following team medallists:-
Girls 15/16 years 4 x 50 mtr freestyle team – 3rd Bronze (Kate Ridley, Isabelle Minter-Paye, Chloe Ashley, Lizzie Bennett)
Well done to all who competed on the final weekend of the championships
Kent county championships - Part 1
Tuesday 4th March 2014
The Shipley sisters - Daniella and Rebecca - kicked the 2014 Championships off on 16th February representing the club in the marathon 800m freestyle event at Crystal Palace - well done girls on sterling performances.
Team Ojays were out in force at Medway Park on 22nd & 23rd February for the first main weekend of the championships. Expectations were exceeded with swimmers achieving PBs, finalist and top 3 places across the board. Congratulations to everyone who qualified for this weekend events : The Girls : Tamryn Van Selm, Georgina Baxter-Smith, Lilli Cutajar, Anna Cvetjan, Clio Bacon, Alice Bennett, Fay Gibson, Katie Napier, Daniella Shipley, Kate Ridley, Issie Minter-Paye, Chloe Ashley, Lizzie Bennett, Molly Haynes, Jessica Page, Holly Baronti, Alex Sandeman and Rebecca Shipley. The boys : Ed Pauling, Eddie Sellar, Connor Martin, Callum Baronti, Ben Strover, Josh Martin, Ollie Randall, Louis Goff.
Congratulations to the following medalists:
Georgina Baxter-Smith 10yrs 400 IM - silver 400 free - bronze
Kate Ridley - 15 yrs 100 fly - 4th, 200 free - silver, 50 free - bronze
Molly Haynes - 17/18 yrs 100 fly - 6th 200 back - 5th
Katie Napier - 14yrs 200 fly 6th
Lizzie Bennett - 16 yrs 50 back 6th
Alex Sandeman - 17/18 yrs 50 back 6th
Rebecca Shipley - 17/18 yrs 800 free bronze 200 back - 6th
Ed Pauling - 9yrs 200 breast bronze, 50 free Silver, 100 IM bronze
Eddie Sellar - 9yrs 200 back 4th, 50 free 4th
Callum Baronti - 10 yrs 50 free bronze, 100 IM 6th
Josh Martin - 13yrs 200 back 6th
Special congratulations go to our new 2014 county champions :
Georgina Baxter- Smith 200 fly 10yrs and Ed Pauling 200 backstroke 9yrs.
A great start to the championships and we look forward to the next two weekends of fast swimming - good luck team Ojays !
Kent Primary Schools Gala
Monday 17th February 2014
This weekend saw some of our younger year 5 and 6 swimmers representing their primary schools at Medway Park. The following swimmers were representing Warren Road : Abi Stanton, Lily Wyles, Jacob Bryant, Matilda Barrett, Emily Goff and Cameron Allan. Swimming for Tubbenden were : Tamryn Van Selm, Ryan Mansbridge, Zoe White, Eddie Sellar, Emma Sands, Maria Phillips and Callum Baronti.
Congratulations to all those who competed - great swims and P.B.s and many going through to the finals gala in March - good luck !
OOSC Junior Sprint Challenge February 2014
Thursday 13th February 2014
Sunday morning proved to be a fantastic start for Orpington Ojays at the Junior Sprint Challenge, where the club was well represented with a lot of its younger swimmers competing for their first time in a junior open meet.
The morning’s events saw many top 3 finishes for the club as well as many swimmers performing above expectation.
Top 3 finishes were as follows: Girls 100 free Tamryn Van Selm 1st in the 10 yr age group, Lilli Cutajar 1st in the 11 yr age group, Anna Cvjetan 1st and Clio Bacon 2nd in the 12 yr age group. Boys 100 free:Callum Baronti 1st and Justin Strover 3rd in the 10 yr age group, Max Leeves 1st in the 12 yr age group.
Girls 50 free:Tamryn Van Selm 3rd in the 10yr age groupLilli Cutajar 2nd in the 11 yr age group.Clio bacon 1st and Anna Cvjetan 2nd in the 12 yr age group
Boys 50 free:Edward Sellar 1st and Will Dennis 3rd in the 9 yr age group. Callum Baronti 1st and Justin Strover 3rd in the 10 yr age group. Max Leeves 1st in the 12 yr age group.
Girls 50 breaststroke:Anna Hawkins 3rd in the 10 yr age group. Lilli Cutajar 3rd in the 11 yr age group. Alice Bennett 2nd and Clio Bacon 3rd in the 12 yr age group
Boys 50 breaststroke: Ed Pauling 1st and Ed Sellar 2nd in the 9 yr age group. Callum Baronti 1st in the 10 yr age group. Michael Phillips 3rd in the 11 yr age group
Max Leeves 2nd and Nam Nguyen 3rd in the 12 yr age group.
Top Boy & Girl
There was also success in several age groups for Top Boy & Girl where Ed Sellar won the 9 yr boys, Justin Strover the 10 yr boys, Lilli Cutajar the 11 yr girls, Max Leeves 12 yr boys and Clio Bacon 12 yr girls.
The afternoon proved to be just as successful as the morning with Orpington Ojays youngsters turning out in force. With swimmers in nearly every heat, we were proving just how promising our junior section of the club is. Again we had several top 3 finishes, many of which were also personal bests for our swimmers.
First event of the afternoon was the girls 100m IM and we had Tamryn Van Selm finishing 1st in the 10 year age group, Lilli Cutajar 3rd in the 11 years and Clio Bacon and Alice Bennett coming 1st and 3rd respectively in the 12 years age group.Next up was the boys 100 IM, again we had lots of pbs and some very successful swims, including Max Leeves coming 2nd in the 12 years age group.
Girls 50m backstroke proved to be a very popular event with lots of heats. Tamryn managed a 2nd place in the 10 years, Lilli Cutajar came 1st and Rachel Langdown 2nd both in the 11 year age group. In the 12 year age group Anna Cvjetan came 1st followed closely by Clio Bacon in 2nd place.
It was the boys turn for 50m backstroke now and more podium places included Edward Pauling getting a speeding ticket for being too fast! Eddie Sellar won the 9 year age group with Ben Langdown coming 2nd. Justin Strover coming 2nd and Callum Baronti 3rd in the 10 years and Max Leeves 2nd and Nam Nguyen 3rd in the 12 years age group.
The penultimate event was boys and girls 50m butterfly. In the girls event, Tamryn claimed another medal with 2nd place in the 10 years, Lilli Cutajar 2nd as well in the 11 years and Anna Cvjetan winning the 12 year age group with Clio coming 3rd. Boys were up next and Ed Pauling finished off the day with a win in the 9 years, followed by Ben Langdown coming 2nd. Connor Martin came 3rd in the 10 years and Max Leeves 2nd in the 12 years.
Top Boy & Girl
There was also success in several age groups for Top Boy & Girl where
Ed Sellar won the 9 yr boys, Justin Strover the 10 yr boys, Lilli Cutajar the 11 yr girls, Max Leeves 12 yr boys and Clio Bacon 12 yr girls.
We cant forget the relays either which Orpington Ojays managed a black, white and purple team and pulled out all the stops finishing in the top 3 yet again. A massive well done to all our swimmers it was a brilliant day.
Well done to all the swimmers who competed it was truly a memorable occasion.
Also, a big thank you to all the helpers, officials and caterers whose assistance was greatly appreciated and helped the event run smoothly.
Clare and Richard
Jack Petchey Achievement Awards
Monday 10th February 2014
2014 started well for two of our young swimmers being recognised for their achievements
Jack Petchey Achievement award winner for January was Lilli Cutajar
Lilli was nominated for her award for her willingness to train hard and consistently in Platinum to achieve her goals.
Her hard work has paid off with the results she has achieved in recent galas. Lilli won medals and obtained County Qualifying times at Bexley and Canterbury in January and pushed herself in training to gain the personal bests required.
Lilli should also be recognised for her willingness to compete for the club at League galas setting a great example for other swimmers at the club.
Jack Petchey Achievement award winner for February was Rachel Langdown
Rachel was nominated for her award for her continues efforts to improve in training which has resulted in her obtaining personal bests and County Qualifying times. Rachel swam well at Bexley and Canterbury in January to achieve these times. Her willingness to always try her hardest in training and her positive attitude to swimming.
Rachel should also be recognised for her willingness to compete for the club at League galas setting a great example for other swimmers
Canterbury Icebreaker - 12th January 2014
Thursday 16th January 2014
What a start to 2014, first there was the Bexley Open with over 30 of our swimming gaining lots of Kent County qualifying times and then further success at the Canterbury Icebreaker. It was the final chance to gain qualifying times for the start of next month's County Championships with many swimmers performing above expectation.
There were finals for the 50 and 100 mtr events where Orpington Ojays was well represented and top 6 places were achieved byEd Pauling, Georgina Baxter-Smith, Fay Gibson, Louis Goff, Tamryn Van Selm, Lilli Cutajar, Rachel Langdown, Anna Cvjetan, Elizabeth Bennett,
Thomas Bennett, Alice Bennett and Katie Napier. Well done to all who competed and represented the club:-
Edward Pauling, Ellie Harden, Georgina Baxter-Smith, Fay Gibson, Thomas Bennett, Louis Goff, Tamryn Van Selm,
Lilli Cutajar, Rachel Langdown, Oliver Randall, Anna Cvjetan, Abigail Stanton, Alice Bennett, Elizabeth Bennett, Anna Cvjetan,
Katie Napier, William Magee-Brown.
Bexley Short Course 4th / 5th January 2014
Saturday 11th January 2014
Saturday was an early start for the many Orpington Ojays’ swimmers who competed in this extremely busy, well organised event. 31 swimmers represented the club in over 50 events winning 39 medals – 17 gold, 13 silver and 9 bronze, plus a further 25 top six positions and ribbons, making parents and coaches extremely proud
The first medal came with Katie Napier in the 14/15yrs 200 IM and a four second pb. Molly Haynes was next on the podium with a comfortable win in the Open event.
Fourth place for Edward Sellar in the 50m free and a Kent time for his age group.
An easy race for Tamryn Van Selm in the 50m butterfly winning by two seconds and achieving pb. Same race different age group a triple achievement in the 14/15yrs with Kate Ridley, Isabelle Minter-Paye and Katie Napier coming first, second and third respectively . Molly Haynes also came first in 16yrs and over.
Boys 200m Breaststroke saw two swimmers in top 6 for the 9 year old age group - Edward Sellar and Edward Pauling coming second and fourth. Callum Baronti fifth in the 10 year old age group of the same event achieving a Kent time. Samuel Gaster swam well in the same race coming fourth in the 12/13 year old age group and achieving pb.
Time for the girls 200m backstroke where in most age groups Ojays was well represented. Starting with Matilda Barrett coming second in 9 year old age group followed by Lilli Cutajar coming third and Rachel Langdown sixth on the medal table. More medals in the same race for Chloe Waller fourth in the 12/13yrs age group, and for the 14/15yrs Isabelle Minter-Paye, Fay Gibson and Daniella Shipley coming second, third and fourth respectively.
Another good result in the 100m butterfly where Kate Ridley finally found out how easy is to swim it coming first in 14/15yrs age group improving her past achievement and getting closer and closer to her pb. Isabelle Minter-Paye also achieved a fifth place for the same age group.
A few races later another top place came with Tamryn Van Selm in 9yrs 50 freestyle achieving pb and a Kent time. In the same race for the girls 14/15yrs age group we had Kate Ridley coming first and Fay Gibson finishing fourth. Molly Haynes came second in 16yrs and over age group.
Two top six in the boys 50m backstroke with Edward Pauling and Edward Sellar finishing third and sixth in 9 year old age group. Despite a bad finish Ben Strover ensured a fourth place in the 12/13yrs 50m backstroke and achieving pb! A comfortable win in the 14/15yrs for Louis Geoff who had the fastest time in the open age group too.
Another fourth place for Tamryn Van Selm in the Girls 9yrs 200m breaststroke achieving pb as well. Great race also in the open age group with Holly Baronti coming second back on form in her main event 200 breaststroke followed by Alexandra Sandeman coming third also achieving a pb.
In the third to last event of the evening OOSC boys were still there to impress in the 100 IM where Edward Pauling and Callum Baronti came second and third in their own age groups. Top six also in the 12/13yrs age group with Ben Strover coming sixth and Louis Geoff fifth in the 14/15yrs age group.
In the second to last event of the day, the last for OOSC and the most competitive race of the competitions Kate Ridley and Molly Haynes took gold and Chloe Ashely fifth in their own age groups of the 100 freestyle.
Second day of competition for the club started well with Thomas Bennett fourth and Louis Geoff fifth in the boys 200IM. Fay Gibson led the way to medal in the 14/15yrs 50m backstroke followed by Katie Napie achieving fifth. Edward Pauling achieved a top six ribbon in the 50m breaststroke coming fifth.
One of the scariest races for some swimmers didn't impact on the the courage and determination of Tamryn Van Selm, Katie Napier and Edward Pauling who performed well in the 200 butterfly. Results of the hard work put at training showed in this race for all our swimmers coming first in their age groups.
A close race for Fay Gibson in the what it seems to be her new main event 100m breaststroke of her age group coming second!
After a fast first 50ms Louis Geoff come sixth in the boys 100 backstroke.
Another busy race the girls 200m freestyle with Matilda Barrett coming fourth in her age group, Kate Ridley and Daniella Shipley first and fourth respectively. Soon after Tamryn Van Selm achieved fourth place and a pb in the girls 9yrs 50m breaststroke, Clio Bacon second in the 12/13yrs and Fay Gibson second in the 14/15yrs of the same race.
Another well deserved second place for Edward Pauling in the boys 200m backstroke achieving pb. Same for Tamryn Van Selm in girls 9yrs 100 IM while in the 14/15yrs Isabelle Minter Paye and Daniella Shipley achieved second and third place. Ben Strover set a good pb and a Kent time in the the boys 100m freestyle.
Last event of the day was 100 backstroke where Rachel Langdown achieved fifth place in the 10yrs age group and Isabelle Minter-Paye and Katie Napier coming first and second in their age group.
These are just some of the excellent achievements, pbs and Kent times achieved at this meet and a great way to start 2014. The success of the weekend is largely supported by the team spirit of our many swimmers on poolside, the much appreciated help and encouragment of parents and, the efficiency of officials and poolside helpers which allowed the smooth running of this competition.
Well done all! Go Ojays!