Aussies Shine At World Deaf Champs

Australian Team wearing their Funky Trunks and Funkita's at World Deaf Swimming Championships

Seven Aussie swimmers ventured to the US in August to compete at the 4th World Deaf Swimming Championships and were all kitted out in Funky Trunks and Funkita of course! Hannah Britton (VIC), Alex Kirchner (VIC), Sam Greatorex (VIC), Craig Morgan (NSW), Teneale Houghton (NSW), Ben Robins (VIC) and Jade Wellstead (WA) made up the team who took on the best deaf swimmers from around the globe for the six day competition.

The Australian Team preparing for a long and hot day at the pool in San Antonio, America

The main aim for the young team of swimmers was to gain valuable experience in preparation for the 2017 Deaflympics in Turkey. With 11 world records broken throughout the meet, the competition was tough but true to form the Aussies took on the challenge and had a successful meet. Highlights of the championships included a haul of new Australian deaf records by Alex Kirchner, Sam Greatorex, Craig Morgan and Hannah Britton. Teneale Houghton, Craig Morgan and Sam Greatorex also made finals in their respective events. A huge achievement for such young and internationally inexperienced swimmers.

The Australian team leaving the pool wearing their Electric Lime backpacks after another successful day at the champs!

After a fantastic week of competition, the Australian World Deaf Swimming Championships Team were awarded the 'Inspirational Team Award'.

"This award is no doubt a reflection of their enthusiasm, encouragement and sportsmanship during the competition," Coach Mel Klamt said.

"Being so young, all the swimmers have a long way to go in their swimming careers and it is great to see them excelling already."

The Australian team show off their Deaf World Championships uniform made by us!

We congratulate the team on their success and wish them the best as they continue their journey to the 2017 Deaflympics!