Yorkshire clubs shine in top spots in second session at Sandwell

The second session of day one of the GoCardless Swim England Diving National Age Championships saw Yorkshire clubs come out on top, while City of Leeds and City of Sheffield enjoyed success.

After winning two gold medals and a silver medal at last year’s National Age Group Championships at Ponds Forge, Leeds’ Lucas Bishop came into the competition looking to build on his success.

The Open Group C Platform event saw a total of 17 athletes compete for a place on the podium – but it was Bishop who came out on top by a narrow margin.

After posting an overall score of 219.45 over six rounds, the Leeds youngster took home the gold medal.

Commenting on the result, Leeds trainer James Milton said: “It was a very strong start to the National Age Group Championships from Lucas today on one of his favorite boards.

“He has been consistent throughout his performance and everyone at the club is very proud of his achievements – we hope for more to come and well done!”

Despite it being only the second session of the championships, Southend Diving had already recorded plenty of podium finishes in the previous women’s 1m group B event and were able to add another medal to their tally when Seb Surry took silver.

Surry finished just 1.05 behind Bishop in what was a close contest. Dive London’s Connor Craydon took home the bronze medal with a total score of 196.95.

Sheffield secure their second gold of the day

City of Sheffield Diving Club took home their second gold medal of the day in the Open Group D 3m event at Sandwell, proving that the change of venue from their home pool did not fail the athletes.

Alex Christian was crowned National Champion with an excellent overall score of 168.10.

Sheffield coach Declan Rogan spoke about his success and said: “It’s a big thing for him to come here and win his first event so he should be really proud of himself.”

Looking at the rest of the competition, Rogan added, “Everyone looks like they’re on fire, so I can’t wait to see what’s next.”

Southampton Diving Academy had their first medalist of the day. After posting a score of 143.10, Hunter Mapstone took home the silver.

Just 1.25 points separated Mapstone from Plymouth Diving Club’s Seth Greentree, who won the bronze medal.

Story written by Gabby Laurent

Pictures: Will Johnston Photography