National coaches lobby for Ellesmere College Titans pool ace
Two Ellesmere College Titans swimmers are celebrating after being picked for the British team – but one found herself at the heart of selection controversy.
Harriet Rothwell and Olivia Gardner, both 15, were both a part of the Great North swims Elite race in Windermere, the Lake District.
The event was especially significant, as it doubled up as qualification for the European Junior Championships being held in Croatia during July.
Both set off well amidst the hustle and bustle of the mass start, which distinguishes Open Water competition from the pool.
Rothwell settled with the second pack of swimmers for the whole race, while Gardner sat in the third pack for the majority of the race .
They pushed hard to the finish and managed to split the groups, racing against some of the best open water swimmers in the world.
Rothwell finished an impressive third and Gardner a creditable seventh, in their age bracket.
But Rothwell was initially told she had not made it through the process for the European Juniors, even though she had beaten selected athletes.
Frustrated coaches up and down the country lobbied for common sense and fair policy, with the original decision being discussed in depth.
Now Rothwell, who started her swimming at Tewkesbury Swimming Club, has received news she will be involved in the tournament after all.
Head coach Alan Bircher said: "I am over the moon for Hattie, particularly she had a slow start to the season after breaking her collarbone.
"The whole focus for her has been the preparation for the race in Windermere. Hattie has stood up under the pressure and produced an outstanding result. I know she will be excellent in Croatia, she just has that open water racing ability."
