At the Scottish National Age Group Championships (SNAGs) held at Aberdeen Sports Village from 5–9 April, eight members of the Strathallan Swim Academy stepped up to compete against the best in the country. For many, this marked a milestone in their development - one shaped by early mornings, long sessions, and commitment.
Among the standout performances was Finlay B who delivered an exceptional series of swims in the 16 age group:
- Gold: 100m Backstroke, 200m Backstroke, 200m IM, 400m IM, 400m Freestyle
- Silver: 50m Backstroke
Director of Swimming Elaine Johnston remarked, “Finlay was on top form, in the last length on the 100 back and in 400 free overtaking with 100 to go. I'm very proud of all the hard work all of our swimmers have put in the school pool paying off across the board.”
Andrew L also impressed in the 14 age group:
- Gold: 100m and 200m Butterfly
- Silver: 50m and 100m Freestyle
- Bronze: 100m Backstroke
Alongside them, Luke J, Euan W, Sam C, Imogen J, Soren Y, and Kristin M each delivered determined performances across various events and distances. While not every swim was a medal finish, every swimmer came away with valuable race experience, personal bests, and clear goals for the next phase of training.
Meanwhile, at the Aquatics GB Swimming Championships, which serve as trials for the World Championships, World Juniors, EYOF, and European Juniors, Strathallan pupils past and present made a major impact.
Evan D, still a junior, showed extraordinary focus and maturity to win the 400m Individual Medley Junior Final in a personal best time of 4:25.22 - a performance that marks him as one of the nation’s brightest young talents.
And in a powerful moment for the wider school community, Duncan Scott, Strathallan alumnus and Olympic medallist, broke the Scottish Record in the 200m Butterfly, qualifying for the World Championships with a time of 1:54.89.
The medal was awarded by none other than his former coach, Elaine Johnston.
“Duncan’s parents had reached out to me and asked if I would like to present his medal as a surprise,” Elaine said. “I’d had a coffee with Duncan the day before, and it was lovely to reconnect and see how he’s continued to grow - not just as one of Scotland’s top athletes, but as a person.”
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