Maughan impresses again at UK School Games

By Ben Baker, Sportsbeat, in Gateshead

AMELIE Maughan kept her cool after a faulty start to storm to 50m freestyle gold at the Sainsbury's UK School Games.

Maughan, 14, claimed a personal best and Games record 26.38 seconds after swimmers were ordered to take to their blocks for a second time after problems with the starting equipment.

"It's the first time I've ever had a start like that: I didn't know what was happening but I'm over the moon with the time," said Maughan.

"I haven't really been training and I was on holiday the week before so to come here and set a new PB and get the Games record was amazing."

Jessica Applegate, 14, romped to victory in the multi-disability 50m freestyle final, clocking 29.36 secs.

Her time was 0.41 secs off the world record - but on this evidence she vowed that it will only be a matter of time before that mark is smashed.

"I love everything about the UK School Games and to swim so close to the current world record makes it ten times better," said Applegate.

"I could never have imagined even a few months ago that I would be anywhere near breaking a world record but I am quite confident now of smashing it and have it in my sights.

"I really think I can make the London 2012 Paralympics. I am young by this competition's standards so why not an Olympics - I hope to make a huge impact in this sport over the next few years."

Victoria Garlick set a new national junior record over 200m freestyle, clocking 2.05.36 while Sam Horrocks just missed out on a new Games record as he won the 100m butterfly.

"I came here to win and that is what I have done," said Garlick.

"Medals not records are what I aim for and if I don't get them I am very disappointed but thankfully I don't have to worry now."