Seahorses make a splash with 19-medal haul

By Jonathan White

Seahorse Swimming Club struck gold four times as its swimmers powered their way to an impressive 19-medal haul at the Halliwick AST North West Regional Gala.

The Crewe-based swimmers battled it out against Aquadis Swimming Club from Ellesmere Port and Sailfin Swimming Club from Sale at the regional gala at Crewe’s Lifestyle Centre on Saturday 26th September 2026.

And there was plenty to celebrate as Seahorse swimmers collected four gold, 14 silver and one bronze medal.

Four of the club’s gold medallists have now earned their place at the Halliwick National Gala in Enfield, London, on 17th October 2026. Representing Seahorse Swimming Club and the North West Region will be Eva Yoxall, Annabelle Marriott, Heidi Tomkinson and Zac Beeston.

The medals and trophies were presented by the Mayor of Crewe Town Council, Councillor Stuart Mackay, who joined the swimmers in celebrating their achievements.

Seahorse Swimming Club secretary Gareth Roberts said: “It was a close contest with over 40 swimmers giving so much effort in the various races. The Mayor was thrilled to see swimmers enjoying the competition and showing their pride when collecting their prizes.”

The Halliwick Association of Swimming Therapy promotes swimming for people with disabilities and provides opportunities for swimmers to take part in competitive events.

The galas use timed handicapping, helping swimmers of different abilities compete on a more level playing field and giving less able swimmers the opportunity to win medals.

In the girls’ 25m event, Eva Yoxall won gold, while Annabelle Marriott claimed gold in the girls’ 50m and Heidi Tomkinson took gold in the girls’ 100m.

Erin Yoxall won silver medals in both the ladies’ 25m and 50m events.

In the men’s events, Zac Beeston won gold in the 25m, Ethan Carroll claimed bronze in the 50m and Carson Bruce took silver in the 100m.

The junior relay team of Beth Davies, Annabelle Marriott, Heidi Tomkinson and Eva Yoxall won silver.

The senior relay team of Zac Beeston, Josh Brough, Tom Platt and David Troop also claimed silver.

There was another silver medal for the league relay team of Ethan Carroll, Jonathan Harrison and Matthew Roberts.

With four regional champions now heading for the national stage, Seahorse Swimming Club will be looking to make another splash in Enfield in October.

The gala success comes during a landmark year for Seahorse Swimming Club, which is celebrating its 70th anniversary. Established in 1956 at Crewe’s Flag Lane swimming baths, the club now meets every Thursday evening at the Lifestyle Centre at Moss Square in Crewe (CW1 2BB).

Seahorse provides swimming opportunities for people with disabilities, helping members build water confidence, learn to swim and develop their abilities in a supportive and inclusive environment.