Lurgan finish in second place

Portadown played host to over 200 of the most promising young competitors in the region on a day of delights in and out of the water.

Representatives from Lurgan, Armagh and Newry and Mourne arrived in town to compete for honours across the relays and individuals.

However, success was measured by more than the final standings.

“There is a great rapport between the clubs, with many of the swimmers competing together at regional level or on Ulster development sessions,” said Portadown Amateur Swimming Club’s Julie Beattie. “Saturday’s championships provided a showcase for not only Portadown as hosts but the other three clubs.

“So much work went into the event, with our 12-strong committee led by Elizabeth Brannagh. She has plenty of experience staging big events so proved the perfect co-ordinator.

“We have swimmers from the different clubs taking part in regional and Ulster meets and the standard on Saturday proved quite high.

“Newry and Mourne won the overall prize, with Lurgan second.” Warm-up sessions started at 8 o’clock before the main event.

“We had relays across the morning, then a break for lunch before the individuals,” said Beattie. “