The Singleton pair recently contested the Australian Age Championships at the Sydney Aquatic Centre, in Homebush – and returned home with some excellent results.

Thirteen-year-old Gilson, tackling the multi-class section, picked up four medals, one silver and three bronze.

He finished second in the 50m freestyle, and backed up with third placings in the 50m breaststroke, 50m backstroke and 100m freestyle.

Moody, 16, contested the 50m freestyle, 100m breaststroke and 100m breaststroke.

For his efforts, he secured three PBs (personal bests).

“I’m more than happy with the boys,” Falkenau said.

“To have two swimmers at the Australian Age Championships is one thing; for them to medal or record PBs is even better.

“It speaks volumes for the quality of the swimmers.

“Both lads have come a long way in the past eight months.

“Darcy’s cut his 50m time from 38 seconds to 28.8.

“He also took 20 seconds off his 400m freestyle mark – it’s only the second occasion he’s raced it.

“And, in Oliver’s case, he spent 10 months on the sideline with a broken arm.

“He only started back in January, so it’s a great performance.

“Oliver made Country in February before taking his place at the Nationals.”

Falkenau said the duo had the world at their feet.

“They’ve already returned to training,” he said.

“Oliver’s next assignment will be the NSW Open Short Course Championships.

“As for Darcy, we’re now re-assessing his goals.”

Gilson also received some financial assistance to attend the Sydney competition, with the Singleton Amateur Swimming Club donating $200 towards his campaign.