Swim Ulster Schools Cup report

The Aurora Leisure Complex in Bangor hosted the Swim Ulster Schools Cup & Championships at the weekend. With numerous schools and approximately 1300 children taking part from across Ulster, it proved to be an extremely exciting 2 days of swimming.

Proudly representing Markethill High School were sisters Jessica (13) and Jodie (11) McMullen.

During the first day of competition Jodie swam in the 50m breaststroke and 50m backcrawl. She achieved 2 new PB’s and a place in both evening finals. With her strong kick and great underwater work Jodie won the gold medal and became the U12 Swim Ulster Schools 50m Breaststroke Champion, in a time of 37.25 seconds.

After re-fuelling Jodie was back in the pool for the 50m backcrawl final. This time, she gained another new PB and a 3rd place bronze medal. Jodie has now qualified to compete at the Irish Minor Schools Championships at the National Aquatic Centre in Dublin, in February.

On the 2nd day of the competition Jessica faced tough competition in the 12-14yr group. Powering off the block with a streamlined dive she achieved a great time of 1.12.25 in 100m freestyle. Jessica then finished her session with her powerful fly kick, when she gained 1.26 in 100m butterfly.

Both girls thoroughly enjoyed representing their school and participating at the event over the weekend.

Jessica and Jodie would like to thank their coaches at Banbridge Swimming Club for all their help and encouragement during many hours of training, and the staff and pupils of Markethill High School for their support.