Duo's splashing time!

Mar 14 2008 by Sam Casey, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

TWO swimmers from Kirklees have been picked to represent Great Britain at the Down Syndrome World Championships.

Joanne Kempley and Kelly Robinson, both from Almondbury and who swim for the Borough of Kirklees Swimming Club, will go to Portugal for the event in November.

Joanne, 18, is a student at Huddersfield Technical College. Kelly, 16, is an apprentice in the physical activity development team for Kirklees culture and leisure services and is training to become a swimming teacher.

They both train at the Stadium swimming pool and were picked after a training session in Reading last month.

Their coach Gemma Ripley said: “Having coached the girls over the past few years I was so nervous, but they have worked really hard and it has paid off.

“To have two girls picked from the Kirklees team is a fantastic achievement and both Joanne and Kelly are thrilled at the news.

“Everyone at the Stadium is so proud of them and we will be supporting them all the way.”

The team is fundraising to cover the £4,000 needed to send the girls to Portugal.

Swimming coaches will be taking part in a 26-mile ‘midnight marathon’ swim in May.

Anyone interested in supporting the fundraising should call Gemma on 01484 234110.

For more information about swimming lessons for youngsters with learning disabilities, call Maureen Holroyd on 01484 234098.