A nurse at St Helier Hospital has demonstrated her fitness to practice - by being selected to swim for Great Britain later this year.

Sue Woodcock, who works on the renal unit, qualified for the 14th annual European Masters Championships in Cadiz, Spain.

The achievement was the more remarkable because she only began swimming eight years ago after the birth of her son, Finn.

She said: “I always enjoyed swimming, but hadn’t thought about doing it competitively until I joined Epsom District Swimmers.

"I made some brilliant new friends, got more into it and was soon swimming three times a week and racing.”

“I’m really excited about wearing a GB hat and feel very lucky.

"There’s no chance I’ll win a medal, because some of the competitors are phenomenally fast, but it’s a privilege just to be there. I’ll score some points and help the team up the rankings.”

The European Masters Championships, from September 14 to 20, are open to swimmers aged over 25, with no upper limit.

Sue dipped under the qualifying time in the 50m, 100m and 400m freestyle races during the British national heats last year.

She said: “During the tryouts, I saw an 84-year-old lady do the 200m butterfly – it was just incredible. There was another lady, aged 99, who swam the 1500m. Obviously, they are not quite getting the times of super-fit athletes, but it really is inspirational to watch.

“For me, it’s not about being incredibly fit or competitive. It’s about meeting people, having new adventures and enjoying the feeling of achieving something.

“I think it’s important not to take it too seriously - I still enjoy a good curry and a pint.”

To find out more about Epsom District Swimmers call 07739 043 186.

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