Reese Shines at the Kent County Championships

Mascot Update: Reese Shines at the Kent County Championships

We are delighted to share the latest update from our sponsored mascot, Reese, following an exciting and highly competitive Kent County Swimming Championships.

There was a slight delay in this report as we awaited further news regarding the 1500m Freestyle event. Unfortunately, after the second heat on 7th February, the remaining six heats were cancelled due to a swimmer falling ill in the pool. Confirmation is still pending as to whether this event will be rescheduled.

With the qualifying window opening on 12th March and a demanding period ahead, it is now very much “all systems go.” Reese is currently in Tenerife on an intensive training camp with her club, RTW Monson Swimming Club, continuing to build strength and sharpen her performance. Further updates will follow upon her return.

Stepping Up to the Challenge

Now competing in the 17+ category at county level – despite not turning 17 until September – Reese faced strong and experienced competition throughout the championships. She rose confidently to every challenge, delivering a series of outstanding swims.

Personal Best Performances

Reese achieved new Personal Bests (PBs) in an impressive range of events:

50m Freestyle
400m Freestyle
50m Butterfly
50m Backstroke
200m Backstroke

These results reflect her rapid progression and the dedication she continues to show in training.

Podium and Finalist Success

Her hard work translated into fantastic championship results:

Silver Medal – 200m Backstroke
Finalist Medals – 800m Freestyle, 400m Freestyle, 200m Butterfly, 100m Butterfly

One of the most thrilling moments of the championships came in the 50m Butterfly. After finishing in a tie for 10th place in the heats, Reese entered a high-pressure swim-off to secure her place in the final. She delivered a remarkable performance, achieving a huge PB of 29.11 seconds. Her next target is clear – breaking the 29-second barrier.

More Than Medals

Beyond the times and medals, the atmosphere throughout the championships was exceptional. Teammates, swimmers from other clubs, and parents created a supportive and encouraging environment poolside.

In a moment that truly captured her character, Reese’s first reaction after the intense swim-off was to hug her competitor and congratulate her on a great race before celebrating with her own club. It was a powerful reflection of her sportsmanship, humility, and kindness.

Balancing Sport and Study

As a Year 11 student preparing for GCSEs, balancing academic commitments alongside high-level competition is no small achievement. Yet Reese continues to thrive both in and out of the pool, demonstrating maturity and resilience well beyond her years.

We are incredibly proud of everything she has accomplished — not only her sporting success, but the young woman she is becoming.

Video links for the 400m Freestyle, 200m Backstroke, and the dramatic 50m Butterfly swim-off are included below. We hope you enjoy watching them as much as we did.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support. We look forward to sharing more updates very soon.

About Reese

Meet our mascot Reese Huckle.

Supporting and celebrating the swim community is at the heart of what we do, from seasoned professionals to rising stars. That’s why we’re proud to introduce Reese Huckle, our official mascot and inspiring young swimmer.

As our mascot, Reese represents what’s possible when talent meets opportunity and support. We’re proud to champion her journey and share her story with the wider FoSS community.

Stay tuned as we cheer her on every step of the way!

info@focusonswim.org

01367 246130

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