Bill Letch Devon Swimmer of the Year 2011

Exmouth Swimming and Life Saving Society swimmer Bill Letch has been voted Devon County ASA’s swimmer of the year for 2011.

Letch competes in Masters Competitions and swims in the 70-75years age group.  He holds numerous British ad European records in Freestyle, Butterfly and IM events.  Letch was the first British swimmer over 70 to break the 30 second barrier for 50m freestyle and won two gold, two silver and a bronze medal at last year’s Masters World Championships in Sweden.  Bill has continued the form he showed at last year’s World Championships throughout the year, winning his age group competition at the Royal Navy Masters Meet back in March before travelling to Sheffield a few weeks ago to compete in the ASA British Gas National Masters Championships; returning from Sheffield with gold for the 200m IM, 100m Freestyle and 100m Butterfly, silver in the 50m Freestyle and 100m IM and a Bronze in the 50m Breaststroke (his least favourite stroke).

Letch said of the award:

“I am absolutely thrilled to have been elected and realise the great honour which this award represents, not only to me, but to my Swimming Club at Exmouth, my Coach Bob Clarke and Masters Swimming in general.”

Exmouth Swimming and Life Saving Society would like to congratulate Bill on such a deserved award; he’s an example to all the members of our club.