Three Isle of Wight swimmers from Ryde Masters Swimming Club competed in the 2024 Swim England South East Masters Open Long Course.

Despite being early in the year, after the Christmas break, the best swimmers from clubs across the South East headed to the KS Leisure Centre in Crawley to compete.

The Ryde swimmers performed exceptionally well. In particular, Island legend Jenny Ball had outstanding results, winning four gold medals in her age category (85-89) in the 50m, 100m, 800m freestyle and 50m backstroke.

Kim Holmes, who coaches the club and competes in the 35-39 group, came away from an excellent start in the 50m backstroke with a gold medal and a silver medal in the 50m freestyle.

Both races saw Kim achieve course personal best times, which has put her in good stead for the Sheffield Nationals later this year.

Matthew Sussmes, who has recently moved up to the 60-64 category, was hoping for less competition but faced quality swimmers.

Nonetheless, he was able to come away with bronze medals in the 50m backstroke and 50m freestyle.