Paul Wilkes, Redditch Swimming Club men’s captain, won the gold medal in the 200 m butterfly event at the LEN European Master’s Swimming Championships held at Stadio Nuoto, Rome, Italy between August 28 and September 4.

Paul, swimming for the City of Birmingham Master Squad, competed in the 35 – 39 age group and completed the race in 2m.11.59 seconds over three and a half seconds in front of his second placed rival.

Paul undertakes all of his training at Redditch Swimming Club where he trains with the newly formed National Squad. The aim of the squad is to develop Redditch Swimmers to reach their maximum potential and to be competitive at Regional and National levels. Paul’s success at the European Masters Championships is a great example of what can be achieved by being committed to the sport and is a fabulous role model for the younger swimmers

Paul Hartland, the club’s vice chairperson, said, “It's great to see Paul's name next to the Union Flag at the top of the results list. The club’s successes in the past 12 months have been unprecedented. The club has achieved top spot in Gold Medals at the Worcester County Championship, won the Worcester Winter League for only the second time in the club’s history, achieved 4th place in the Regional Final of the National Arena League and won the Worcester County Team Relay Competition. Our Head Coach, Jon Fletcher, was appointed to the role in August in 2021. Supported by a team of talented coaches Jon has taken the club to new heights and the establishment of a new squad structure is aimed at reaching higher.”

“The squad structure will provide a clear pathway for athlete development and membership of the National Squad may be an aspiration for all Redditch Swimmers.”

Redditch Swimming Club has also recently developed an approach where local businesses can sponsor the club. ACS Construction – Midlands and Andy’s Fish Bar, Lodge Park have both provided funds to help the club achieve its aspiration of becoming one of the top clubs in the Midlands Region. Paul Hartland said, “Any business that wants to be associated with a quality high achieving sporting team and assist in providing opportunities to the children of Redditch may sponsor the club. Just go to the club’s website at Redditchswim.org.uk for details.