Billy Moody set new benchmark and picks up seven medals at country champs

She is referring to Singleton Amateur Swimming Club (SASC) squad member, Billy Moody, and his breakout performance at the 2018 New South Wales (NSW) Country Championships. Along with his subsequent selection in the 2018 Swimming NSW Junior Sharks Squad.

The news of his selection in the development squad came after Moody set a new benchmark in the Mens 12&U 200m Butterfly event (2.24.29) at the country champs last month – smashing the previous record by 2 seconds.

Moody says he even surprised himself. “I was also pleased with my first place in the 100m fly as I produced another PB of 1.04,” he says.

In total he picked up six gold medals and a sliver; making a significant contribution to the club securing 4^th place on the medal tally. Geale says placing 4^th overall with nine gold medals and one silver is an “extraordinary achievement” considering the size of the club. And, is was perennial performer, Darcy Gilson, who bought home the remainder of the haul with his three gold medals.

He came first in the 50m breast, back, and butterfly, multi-class events. Although he didn’t break any records this time around, Gilson has his sights focused on the big picture – the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics. Earlier this season, he was up against some of the current crop of paralympians at the 2018 NSW Open State Championships where the accomplished swimmer came second in the 100m breaststroke. He also just missed medalling in both the 100m back and freestyle – placing fourth in both races. But when it comes to the club’s successful outing at country champs, the head coach says Alix O’Bryan, Mackenzie Gray and Harrison Geale also performed well. “They all achieved top 10 finishes,” she says. This latest success comes on the eve of a momentous occasion for the club.  On Saturday night the official 90^th anniversary celebrations will transpire, and Geale is pleased to reveal our only Olympic swimmer, Kevin Hallett, is attending.