Carmarthenshire swimmer makes Swim Wales national squad

Meurig Francis, aged 17, of Llangunnor near Carmarthen has been selected for the Swim Wales National Youth Development Squad. Meurig, who is currently studying for his A-Levels at Ysgol Bro Myrddin, trains with the Nofio Sir Gar Elite Performance squad in Carmarthen.

Meurig, who currently trains for 14 hours in the Carmarthen Leisure Centre pool each week with gym work on top will join the Swim Wales National Youth Development squad for extra training held on weekends at the Welsh National Pool in Swansea. Meurig will then be invited, if he hits his target times, to competitive camps next year in Marseille, Edinburgh and Barcelona.

Meurig Francis pictured wearing his new Welsh jacket with Nofio Sir Gar head coach Austyn Shortman

The programme will be a huge commitment for Meurig and his family, with all aspects of his fitness programme being under scrutiny in order to maximise his ability in training and for race days. Nofio Sir Gar was one of many successful applicants who received funding from the Nolan Charity Fund. The funding supported the youth swimming team by providing them with a new sports kit for the swimmers and head coach, Austyn Shortman. Commenting on the team’s success, Sarah Cleevely, fundraising & events manager for the Nolan Charity Fund, said:

“We would like to wish Meurig all the best with his training and competitions while he flies the flag for Wales. It is great to see his dedication and commitment resulting in such recognition and being selected for the squad.”