ANNABEL GUYE-JOHNSON of Royal Tunbridge Wells Monson Swimming Club has been recognised as England Talent Athlete of the Year for swimming at Swim England National Awards at the University of Birmingham.
The national governing body said she swam ‘an incredible race’ in the 200m breaststroke at the World Junior Championships, claiming bronze with a personal best [PB].
Annabel, who attends Kent College, said: “It all started in April of this year really, when I was selected for the Worl d Junior Championships in Indianapolis.
“I was entered into all three breaststroke events and came away with bronze in the 200m. It was a three-second PB.”
She explained her success by saying: “I think because there was less pressure as it wasn’t my main event, I enjoyed it and came away with a medal.”
Annabel recorded a time of 2min 27.42sec to touch third in a thrilling final, just 0.25 seconds ahead of Ireland’s Mona McSharry.
At the awards ceremony she was asked how the climax of the race went, and revealed: “I couldn’t really see the field that well but I did have a feeling that I was in with a shout.
“But going down the last length I said to myself I don’t mind how much this hurts, it will be an amazing thing. I remember touching, turning round, looking at the board and thinking, I can’t believe this is happening.
She also attended an international camp in Marseille as part of the England Talent Phase Three group, where she ‘performed with -distinction’ according to the judges.
Now the 17-year-old is looking forward to trials for Commonwealth Games next month.
