Held from March 15th to 17th at the National Aquatic Centre (NAC), the 2024 Auckland Age Group and Open Championships witnessed remarkable performances from athletes across the region. Returning to the top-notch facilities of NAC, athletes showcased remarkable prowess, resulting in the establishment of new records. Notably, the meet saw the setting of four Open NZ records, six Para NZ Open Records, and four Age Group NZ Records, with an athlete achieving an Olympic Games Qualifying standard.
North Shore fielded a formidable team comprising 68 athletes ranging from the Panda squad to the Grizzly team. Despite some members participating in the NZ Surf Nationals, the team showcased remarkable strength and depth.
This event holds significant importance in our summer long course calendar, serving as a crucial rehearsal for upcoming competitions such as the NZ Swimming, NZ Age Groups, and NZ Div II Champs. It provides an invaluable opportunity to fine-tune protocols and race strategies.
The championship format, featuring prelims and finals, proved highly successful, demanding fast-paced performances both in the mornings and evenings, akin to the rigor demanded at national and international levels. Racing remains integral to our pursuit of continuous improvement, serving as the most effective form of training.
The team's success across various events was evident:
Medals
Open Category: 9 Gold, 3 Silver, and 8 Bronze Medals
Age Group Category: 27 Gold, 20 Silver, and 25 Bronze Medals
Totalling 92 medals across the team.
Club Points Trophy
North Shore claimed the top points scoring club, amassing 3058 points, securing a lead of 468 points over the nearest rival.
Personal Best Times
Out of 297 events, the team achieved 181 new personal best times, yielding an impressive PB percentage of 60.94%.
Special mention goes to athletes who achieved 100% PBs, including Michael Brady, Channelle Huang, Lani Kim, Elvin Wang, Henry Wang, Yousef Abueideh, Dom Barton, Titus Huang, Chloe Kavanagh, Hyunseo Lee, Luan Maritz, Jasmin Reader, Winnie Tang, Connor Turver, Charlotte Welsh, Luke Zhu, Ryder Zhu, Harrison Cooke, Jack Barton, Cooper Clague, and Yuri Lee.
Records
Team members shattered eight NZ, six Auckland, and nine NSS club records during the meet. Notable achievements include:
Monique Wieruszowski (Grizzly) displayed her excellence with an exceptional performance, achieving a time of 1:07.67 in the 100 BRST. During her outstanding feat, she established two NZ Records (Female 16 years and Open), two Auckland Records, and two NSS Club Records.
Asher Smith-Franklin (Grizzly) secured six NZ Records in Men's Para S14, with outstanding performances including times of 4:55.30 in the 400 IM, 17:34.91 in the 1500 FR, 2:16.98 in the 200 IM, and 9:14.99 in the 800 FR, alongside a notable double achievement of 2:30.42 in the heats and 2:30.25 in the 200 BK final. His exceptional feat of holding long course records in every event within his S14 classification speaks volumes about his dedication, skill, and determination. Congratulations, Asher, on this remarkable accomplishment!
Andrew Feng (Polar) demonstrated bravery with his 200 FLY swim, establishing a new NSS club record in the Boys 14-year age group, recording a time of 2:13.11.
Grayson Coulter (Black) set six NSS and Auckland records in the Boys 12-year age group, showcasing remarkable performances such as 25.90 in the 50 FR, 55.91 in the 100 FR, and double achievements in the 200 FR, with times of 2:01.28 in the heats and 2:01.15 in the final. Additionally, he excelled in the 100 FLY, initially posting 1:04.65 in the heat before smashing his own record by 1.89 seconds in the final, recording an impressive time of 1:02.76.
Acknowledgments
The team extends heartfelt gratitude to coaches Graham, Dave, Michelle, Rafa, Jack, and Monique for their unwavering support. Special thanks are also due to parents and supporters who volunteered in various capacities, essential for the team's success.
As we move closer to the upcoming championship meets, let's remain steadfast in our commitment to pursuing excellence, treasuring each step of progress on our path. Let's recognize that perfection is a journey, brimming with chances for growth and triumph. Let's approach this adventure with unwavering optimism, fueled by the knowledge that our dedication to greatness will always lead us forward.
