SWIMMING: Hird has high hopes

Luton disability swimmer Aaron Hird believes more success is to come his way after climbing the podium three times at the Sainsbury’s 2014 School Games in Manchester.
Aaron Hird, rightAaron Hird, right
Aaron Hird, right

Hird starred in the pool at the Games, taking gold in the multi-class 50m freestyle in a time of 27.50 seconds while also claiming bronze in the 100m breaststroke and 100m butterfly.

The 15-year-old, who is a member of Team Luton Swimming Club, admitted to surprising himself with how well he had swum at the Games but insists it is a sign for the future.

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“It is an ecstatic feeling to win so many medals,” he said. “I was quite shocked to get a bronze in the breaststroke so to get a gold as well in the freestyle was incredible.

“I loved the School Games – it was an amazing experience. It’s a great platform for young athletes like me and hopefully it can stand me in good stead for the future.

“At the moment I’m just trying to improve step by step. It’s easy to combine school with swimming as I have three free evenings and the weekend so I can swim five nights a week.”

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