BEFORE the nationwide lockdown the Kendal Swimming Club hosted its first championship.

The day saw Sophie Gibson claim her first trophy after a duel developed between Gibson and Rosemary Swallow with Lucie Bulman hot on their trail.

The male event had a real competitive atmosphere.

James Escolme and Jacob Klijn battled shoulder to shoulder and Adam Stansfield also worked hard right until the finish.

James and Jacob finished with a split second between them but Escolme emerged victorious.

The Gents and Junior Gents categories saw James Escolme winning both to complete a hat trick of victories -leaving Alex Tallon and Max Ainsworth to pick up the minor places.

Chloe Westmorland stormed to her first championship in the Girls under 14 categories.

The Open age group saw a further two victories for the in form Sophie Gibson.

Sophie showed great technique coupled with superb talent to take both the Ladies and Junior Ladies trophies.

The Gents competition finished with a new name on the trophy when Adam Stansfield emerged victorious.

Saving his energy until the last length, Stansfield dug deep into his reserves.

He created a vital lead that brought him a magnificent victory over Jacob Klijn and Escolme.

During the 50m Butterfly event Felicity Pattinson and Jake Smith achieved victory in the under 11 years championships.

They were then followed by the Ladies and Gents events.

Sophie Roberts was in her element at this stroke.

With a brilliant start she got a window of advantage, powering her way to a storming finish.

She held off the fast finishing Rosemary Swallow and Lucie Bulman to give her a well-earned victory.

This was Kendal club's first swimming gala and took place on February 29.

Future events are hoped for once the current lockdown is over.

All current swimming events have been cancelled for the duration of the crisis.

The club was founded in 1886 and is a thriving non-profit making club run entirely by volunteers.

For future events and news visit www.kendalasc.org.uk.