A WEEKEND of specialist coaching awaits two swimmers from Chirk Dragons Swimming Club after they recorded some of the fastest times nationally in their events prior to lockdown.

Emma Worthington and Carys Morgan both finished events with one of the top three fastest times across Wales to secure their places in the Welsh Junior Development Squad.

It is the first time in the history of Chirk Dragons Swimming Club that any of their members have been selected for the national squad.

Carys posted one of the three fastest times across the country in the100-metre breaststroke earlier in the year, while Emma finished in the top three 200m breaststroke and 100m breaststroke.

They will now attend training camps with the Welsh Senior Squad as a reward for their efforts.

Both swimmers say they can not wait to get started with their training.

Emma said: “I’m really excited – it has been an aim of mine for at least a year to get into the Welsh squad.

“I have been swimming four-times-a-week, and I began swimming for the club when I was eight years old.

“We sort of knew I would be in the squad because I had finished in the top two in my events across the country.

“I knew what the criteria was and knew I was in the right place so it wasn’t completely unexpected, but it was still really nice to receive the email and I am looking forward to it.

“We were able to get a pool after a few months of lockdown in the garden, and I was able to practice by swimming while being attached to a bungee rope so I remained in one place.

“To be able to train with the Wales squad is something I feel very lucky to be able to do.

“It is an amazing opportunity at this age especially. I’m very proud of myself to get this far.”

Carys added: “I found out by email that I had qualified for the squad.

“I am really excited to go and I just can’t wait to start training with them.

“We’re not sure when that will be yet, but we have returned to training at Chirk now.

“It’s great to be back especially being out of the pool for such a long time. It’s good to see all of my friends there.

“I’m really proud to have the opportunity to join a squad which represents the country.”

Chirk Dragons Swimming Club head coach Steve Parker, who has been with the club for more than a decade, is proud to see the girls rewarded for their efforts.

He said: “They have achieved this level down to their commitment and effort over last two years and deserve their achievement.”