ROYSTON Swimming Club began the 2011 Major League gala season newly promoted to Division Two, due to a great season last year.

The higher division was always going to bring tough competition from the larger teams across the area, who generally train more often, and, in some races swimmers have to contend with an increased distance of 100m instead of 50m. However, considering this was Royston’s first event at this level, the team managed to pull in some very impressive improvements in Personal Best times, with many close races across the age groups.

Highlights were Joe Walsh and Sam Huttlestone knocking at least six seconds from their PB’s. Joshua Allen improved by 4.5 seconds with Patrick Tyrell, Ben Batchelor and Sophie Nottage improving by at least two seconds.

Overall in individual events 21 swimmers set new PB’s, and there were 10 new club records, which is impressive form considering many of these times were only posted at the Club Championships in November. Unfortunately Royston finished sixth on the night, but will be pleased with the overall performance and potential shown for the season ahead.