The journey to becoming a state champion swimmer begins with swimming lessons and countless laps in the pool.

And at the recent South Australian Open State Championships, members of the Manly Swimming Club showcased their incredible talent and dedication.

Nine athletes from the club – based at Manly Andrew ‘Boy’ Charlton Aquatic Centre (MABC) – took on top-tier swimmers from Japan, Victoria, Western Australia, and the very best in South Australia where the event was hosted.

Swimmers Gabriel Gorgas and Lillie McPherson represented NSW, and MABC’s very own Head Coach Justin Rothwell was selected as a Swimming NSW Representative Coach. Gabriel won gold in the 100m, 200m and 400m freestyle and 200m Individual Medley, earning himself the title 'NSW Male Swimmer of the Meet'.

Seven more Manly swimmers joined the Swimming Metro North East (SMNE) squad, racing in 30 events and making 28 finals. Medals came from Bella Zhang (Bronze - 50m and 100m Breaststroke), Adam Graham (Silver - 200m Backstroke) and then Men’s 4x100m Freestyle Relay (Gold) and Mixed 4x50m Freestyle Relay (Bronze) teams. Logan Kaye also achieved a national qualifying time in the 200m Individual Medley.

Huge congratulations to all the swimmers and coaches for their incredible efforts. We wish the next team all the best in the upcoming VIC State Championships.

Many of the swimmers have been at MABC for over 6 years and have progressed through squads, working with our coaching team to develop their championship skills.

For more details on MABC’s swim lessons and squads head to our website.