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Two youngsters who train with Southampton Diving Academy at the Quays Swimming and Diving Complex made their debuts representing Great Britain in March. Eight divers from the British Diving Junior TP Squad competed in the Aachen Talent Cup against divers from six nations; Germany, Sweden, France, Switzerland, Egypt and Poland. Both Sam Knapp (12) and Bethany Watts (11) put in solid performances for a first international outing, Knapp competing particularly well for a diver so new to the sport and bringing home a bronze medal. Knapp’s bronze medal came in a platform event, which took a staggering 90 minutes to complete. Scoring a total of 291.9 points off his 7 dives, his consistent performance earned him a place on the rostrum. On the 3m springboard his consistency also paid dividends, leaving him in 5th place only 10 points behind the bronze medallist. In a busy schedule Knapp also competed on 1m springboard, where he took 13th place and in the 3m synchronised springboard event, partnering Harry Gower from Luton Kingfishers. The boys took 5th position with a score of 179.16 off 5 dives. Watts put in an encouraging performance in both platform and 3m events. Performing the most difficult dive of any member of the team, an inward 2 ½ somersaults from the 5m platform, which is the progression skill for inward 3 ½ somersaults from the 10m platform, Watts had demonstrated in training that she had the ability to nail the dive for between 60 and 70 points. However, nerves on the big occasion got the better of her and she held back to leave her just 9 points from bronze although silver was most definitely within her sights. In her two events Watts finished 7th on platform and 11th on 3m springboard. National Talent Manager, Julian Bellan, was delighted with the outcome. "Both of the Southampton divers made a very promising start to their international career," he said. "They came away with respect and confidence in what can be achieved in the coming seasons." |
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| For further details call Lindsey Fraser, Director of Coaching on 023 8072 0922 / 07810 305355 or Annie Clewlow, Chair of SDA on 023 8072 0922 / 07910 300232 |
| Photo opportunities can be arranged |