Yorkshire clubs shine in top spots of second session at National Age Groups

The second session of day one at the GoCardless Swim England Diving National Age Group Championships saw the Yorkshire clubs finish on top as City of Leeds and City of Sheffield enjoyed success.

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

The Open Group C Platform event saw a total of 17 athletes competing for a place on the podium – but it was Bishop who topped the pile by a narrow margin.

Having registered an overall score of 219.45 over six rounds, the City of Leeds youngster took home the gold medal.

On the result, Leeds coach James Milton, said: “It was a really strong start to the national age group championships from Lucas today on one of his favourite boards.

“He was consistent throughout his performance and everyone at the club is very proud of his achievement – hopefully more to come and a huge well done!”

Despite it only being session two of the championships, Southend Diving had already registered a clean sweep of podium places in the earlier Female Group B 1m event and were able to add another medal to their tally when Seb Surry won 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 second gold of the day

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

Alex Christian was crowned national champion with an excellent overall score of 168.10.

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

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

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

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

Story written by Gabby Laurent

Pictures: Will Johnston Photography