A young swimmer from Lincolnshire is making waves after being ranked the third fastest backstroke swimmer in England in the under‑8s category.
Eight‑year‑old Martha Deakin, a former pupil of Puddle Ducks Lincolnshire Swim Academy, achieved the impressive national ranking following years of dedication in the pool after first learning to swim with the award‑winning swim school franchise as a baby.
Martha began her swimming journey when she was just a few months old and progressed through the Puddle Ducks programme before graduating from the Swim Academy, building strong technique, water confidence and a genuine love of swimming along the way.
Her mother, Lorna Deakin, said: “Martha has been swimming since she was just a few months old and has always had such a natural love for the water. Puddle Ducks played a huge role in building her confidence, water safety skills and helping her feel completely at home in the pool. We’re incredibly proud of what she’s achieved, but most importantly she’s happy, confident and thoroughly enjoys her swimming.”
During her time at the Swim Academy, Martha was supported by several teachers, including Jess Meakin, who helped guide her development and nurture her confidence.
Jess said: “It’s been an absolute pleasure teaching Martha and watching her grow over the years. She’s always been enthusiastic in the water and quietly determined to keep improving, while still enjoying every session. Her achievement is incredibly well‑deserved, and I’m so proud of how far she’s come.”
Outside the pool, Martha is an energetic and well‑rounded child who also enjoys gymnastics and dance, balancing swimming with school and other hobbies.
Nicola Wilson, Franchise Owner of Puddle Ducks Lincolnshire, commented: “We’re incredibly proud of Martha and everything she has achieved at such a young age. Being ranked among the fastest swimmers in England for her age group is a fantastic accomplishment and a real credit to her love of swimming. Her journey is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when children are supported in the water from an early age.”
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https://www.hellolincoln.co.uk/categories/sport/martha-deakin-among-englands-fastest