THERE was criticism of the British Swimming Association yesterday as it continued with its championships in Edinburgh while across the country virtually every other public event was cancelled.
The National has learned that one group of swimming hopefuls was trapped in a Borders hotel and was unable to complete the final 20 miles of their journey until after the event in which one of them was due to compete.
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There were fears for the safety of other competitors travelling to the Edinburgh International Swim Meet, which features the British Championships, at the Royal Commonwealth Pool in Edinburgh.
The event is particularly important for young swimmers trying to qualify for the European Junior Championships due to take place in Helsinki, Finland.
Some people took to social media to criticise British Swimming and there was no doubt the weather affected the turnout of competitors.
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Karen Graham stated on Facebook: “Lots of empty lanes, feel for the swimmers that could not get there due to the weather.”
Lucy Douglas wrote: “Thoroughly irresponsible of the organisers to continue despite the red alert; it’s difficult enough for the young competitors who’ve trained so hard without having the dilemma of trying to travel there in current conditions.”
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A spokesperson for British Swimming said that they had considered cancelling the event but after discussions with stakeholders and competitors they decided to continue.
No one’s selection chances would be harmed by non-attendance.
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