Ava Macey has won gold at the recent Swimming NSW Country Championships, beating some of the best young swimmers from all over the state in the 10 years girls 100 metre breaststroke event.
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The 10-year-old Moree Amateur Swimming Club member also managed a personal best, knocking an impressive five seconds off her time.
“I had to try and chase the girl next to me; when I was swimming I didn’t expect to knock any time off,” Ava said.
“I was proud; standing on the podium and everyone was there, it was nervous and exciting.”
Ava’s mum Amy Macey said the feat was even more impressive considering Ava lost her goggles on the 50m turn.
“It was a huge PB – with no goggles,” she said.
“We didn’t go in with expectations to place, we always hope for a PB.”
Ava also placed fourth in the 11 years girls 50m breaststroke event.
“She missed out on third by 0.2 seconds; overall she did absolutely amazing in both races,” Mrs Macey said.
Ava was one of five Moree swimmers to compete at the NSW Country Championships, held at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre on the weekend, with each swimmer coming away with a personal best time.
Ava’s brother Alex was a top 10 finalist, placing ninth in the 13 years boys 100m breaststroke event. He also recorded a PB in the 200m breaststroke.
Chloe Elbourne was also a top 10 finalist, placing ninth in the 10 years girls 100m breaststroke and taking six seconds off her time.
Her sister Gabbie also knocked six seconds off her personal best in the 12 years girls 100m backstroke, moving from 43rd to 11th place.
Finally, Ben Di Donna also managed to take half a second off his time in the 10 years boys 50m freestyle.
Coach Angela Walker said she was very proud of each of her swimmers for achieving some fantastic results on the weekend.
“They are big personal best times,” she said.
“Hopefully it’ll inspire them to work hard and reach even greater heights.”
Moree Amateur Swimming Club secretary Tammy Elbourne said the club is extremely proud of all five swimmers.
“We like the kids to measure their success on personal growth,” she said.
“Ribbons and medals are fabulous but they’re very hard to get, so it’s a huge feat for Ava.
“But they all need to be proud to do their best each time.”