Washington finds form as Bermuda finish with 14 medals

Bermuda wrapped up the Central American and Caribbean Amateur Swimming Confederation Championships in Costa Rica by taking their medal tally to a hugely-impressive 14.

In the final session, Bermuda claimed a gold, two silvers and a bronze, with young Jesse Washington finally getting on the podium with stunning swims to claim silver in the 50m fly and a bronze in the 100m freestyle. 

His performance in the 50m fly lowered the national age group record, while his time of 55.09sec in the 100 free was his second fastest swim in that event ever.

Ashley Yearwood won silver in the 100m freestyle before the women’s relay team of Rebecca Heyliger, Stephamie Myles, Lisa Blackburn and Yearwood set a new national record to win the 4x100m freestyle in 4min 08.71sec. 

It capped a fine meet for the island, with the undoubted star being veteran Blackburn who claimed six golds — four individual and two relay — and one silver.

Coach Ben Smith said in a press release: “The final event for the Bermuda team was the women’s 4x100 freestyle relay.  We had Rebecca Sharpe and Stephanie Myles do a spirited swim-off to see who would be the fourth member of the relay. Stephanie out touched  Rebecca and became the final member.  

“All of the swimmers were tired after five days of competition but relays usually bring out the last bit of needed energy.  Rebecca Heyliger went first and put us in the early lead. Stephanie held on to the lead with her second leg and Lisa made the lead slightly bigger. 

“When Ashley dove in the race was not in doubt but I hoped to see the national record fall.  They took the gold and set the record – what a great way to cap off an exciting and successful CCCAN 2013.”

Statement by Shadow Minister Michael Weeks

On behalf of the Bermuda Progressive Labour Party, our members and supporters, we extend congratulations to our medalists in the Central American and Caribbean Amateur Swimming Confederation Championships and Senior Championships.

Bermudian athletes continue to represent our people impeccably on the world stage and have thrived in global competition.  We congratulate our athletes and encourage them to continue striving for athletic and personal greatness.