Sport
14 February, 2026
Swimmers in winning form
CENTRAL Cairns Swimming sent a team of nine swimmers to Brisbane last weekend to compete at the Queensland 2026 State Sprint Championship, recording strong results and numerous personal bests.
The squad contested 31 events across the championship, recording 19 personal bests.
Several swimmers achieved 100% PBs, meaning they bettered their previous times in every event they swam. Those swimmers were Hannah Brunott, Archer Fontaine, Nate Ihle, Jackson Pittard and Eva Salleras.
The team included four first-time state team swimmers, aged 10 to 15.
The travelling group was supported by two coaches, one team manager and a team captain, Piper Allcorn.
The swimmers completed 34 training sessions in the lead-up to the Brisbane meet.
Club representative Jeanette Crumpton said the results reflected strong preparation and teamwork.
“We had two top 30 finishes, and our youngest competitor actually got three top 10 finishes,” she said.
The top 30 finishes were recorded by Casey Hogan in the 50m breaststroke and Archer Fontaine in the 50m breaststroke.
The three top 10 finishes were achieved by Quinn Savage, the youngest competitor, with sixth in the 50m free, seventh in the 50m back and seventh in the 50m fly.
The team trains under Andrew ‘Herbie’ Howard (head coach), who said the experience was valuable for the swimmers.
“The kids did really well and they had a ball,” he said.
Team manager Fiona Mundie said the state sprint trip continued the club’s strong tradition.
“Each year, there are new team dynamics, new things I learn and new families I meet. What doesn’t change is the love the club and coaches put into getting these kids to the big events,” she said.
“I am lucky to be part of guiding these fine young humans, even if just for a brief moment.”
Central Cairns Swimming also thanked coaches Herbie Howard and June Cotter.
In other news for Central Cairns Swimming squad, the club has welcomed a new paraswimmer, George Weston.
Ms Crumpton said George Weston’s pathway into competitive swimming was a positive development for the club, adding to its growing participation across different programs.
Central Cairns Swimming continues to focus on development opportunities for swimmers of all ages and abilities, with the Brisbane competition providing valuable experience as the club prepares for upcoming training and events.
