TWO swimmers from North Yorkshire are determined to show they have what it takes to perform at the highest level by taking up an invitation to compete at this years selection for the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games.

Faye Rogers and Thomas Flower, both of whom swim for Richmond Dales ASC, had qualified for the British Swimming Selection Trials 2021 before lockdown started.

Having not been able to train since December due to lockdown restrictions, both have decided to compete at the event which is the selection for the GB Team.

They are currently training in outdoor pools and will move to hotel accommodation and isolate before the event starts on April 14.

Mr Flower races in the 100m and 200m freestyle and Miss Rogers competes in the 200m butterfly.

The swimmers face a huge disadvantage compared to other athletes who have been permitted to train as “Elite” athletes but they are determined to demonstrate they have what it takes to make senior level domestic finals.

Head coach of the club Ben Hatchett said:“The British Swimming Selection Trials is the pinnacle of the domestic swimming competition that only comes round once every four years.

"For Richmond Dales ASC to have two representatives is a testament to the hard work the pair have put in, consistently over the last 10 years.

"It's a great advert for the club and demonstrates to our younger members what can be achieved with commitment and dedication at the club. We are delighted to be able to support members in achieving the heights of Olympic Trials and reaching their potential.”

Richmond Dales swimming club recently held a Crowdfunding campaign called 10k 4 10k where they raised more than £24,000 to help secure the club's future. The club had been hit hard by the pandemic with lost revenue but with the assistance of the Sport England initiative and the support of local businesses and supporters of the club exceeded its target of raising £10,000. Younger swimmers at the club are now watching two of their Performance Squad swimmers and no doubt dreaming of achieving similar accolades.

Chairman of the swimming club Steve Jones said: “This is a marvellous achievement and as a club we are extremely proud of Thom and Faye. Swimming at the Olympic Trails is a testament to the hard work and dedication both have put in over the years. All at the club wish them good luck and hope they enjoy the experience.”

If any budding club swimmers are interested in joining Richmond Dales, we have spaces available in all of our competitive programmes as well as Boosters for swimmers in Stage 5 plus of Learn to Swim, Masters for adult swimmers and a dedicated Para squad for those with physical or visual impairment.

For an informal chat about joining us please email admin@rdasc.org.uk.