Congratulations to JBug Kenan who recently qualified for and competed in the Surrey County Swimming Championships, placing 10th in the county for his age category (10/11 years old) after seven events.
The championships were held in Guildford, “in a 50m Olympic style pool, where national teams train!” Kenan says, and the events were held over two weekends. He had a very successful competition and was particularly proud of his 50m and 200m backstroke events, which placed him 41st and 38th nationally for his age category – a fantastic achievement.
Kenan says, “I am really happy as the competition was a huge success. After my last race, whatever pressure I had on my shoulders slipped away as soon as I touched the final wall. I am proud of myself, and I hope I can make next year’s Surrey Championships too!”
Kenan swims with South Croydon Swimming Club, and is currently at county level. He says, “Last year (2024) was the first year I swam consistently for the club, competing in and winning the Octopus League, which is for Croydon clubs. I then competed in the National Arena Challenge, and my times were improving with every race. I was committing myself more, even taking a three-hour trip to Dover for a single event! It was in Dover that I qualified for my first Surrey event with a time of 40.83 seconds for the 50 meters backstroke.
“I think swimming is good as you use all the different muscles in your body and it is a good challenge. The pressure can be immense, though!
“I enjoy a variety of sports at Trinity. I am in the A team for swimming, the 12A team for water polo, the B team for football, the captain of the B team for rugby – where we are unbeaten! – and I am trying to get into a hockey team (I go to hockey club regularly).”
Well done Kenan!
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