As the last main preparation for Olympic trials, Sydney Open meet is a great chance to refine and practice racing. Shaun Champion raced his main races, applying his skills purposefully amongst his peers. Shaun swam another sub 52 swim, placing second in 51.99. Shaun was second in the 50 butterfly too. Shaun maximised his last major racing opportunity, working at his craft in 9 events throughout the 3 days. Shaun was representing Abbotsleigh and his university, where he is studying Engineering: Shaun will now fine tune things as we step closer to the Olympic Trials in June.
Zac Attard carried his momentum form Australian Open Championships. Zac made his qualifying time for Trials at this meet, making our Team of 3 to Olympic Trials. In fine form, Zac made the A final in his pet event the 200m freestyle. Zac used his experience and knowledge in this race to improve his time from the morning heat to a faster finals time.
Zac is currently balancing his school teaching skills and his swimming ability, and his is also an Australian representative at 2017 World Junior Championships and a national short course title holder in the 200m freestyle.
Audrey Jackson gave her best at the meet, with all intentions to practice her main race and a few more. Unfortunately Audrey was struck down with sickness, making a decision to look after herself with an aim to get better for her first experience going to a Trials meet.
Piper Marinas had a breakthrough meet. Piper swam personal bests in the 50 backstroke, 100 backstroke, 50 freestyle, 50 butterfly and 200 backstroke. Piper also made the B final for the 200m backstroke. Pipers determination and commitment to each race presented her with the opportunity to experience a final. Piper handled her final well and improved the way she swam her morning swim. This was great reward for your attention to detail and perserverance.
Congratulations to Shaun, Zac, Audrey and Piper for bringing their best to the meet.
Go Team Abb!