Kingfisher News & Archive
Embedded Files
6th April
New WHATSAPP CHANNEL
New WHATSAPP CHANNEL
Parents and Swimmers Only
March 28th
Today we celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Day
A huge THANK YOU to every single person who gives their time, energy, and heart to support Armthorpe Kingfishers Swimming Club
It’s not just the incredible work you see poolside it’s all the behind the scenes effort that continues long after everyone leaves the water. The hard work never stops, and it never goes unnoticed
Every single volunteer makes a difference and we truly appreciate everything you do to keep the club running smoothly
A special mention goes to our amazing treasurer, Michele Stilborn
Many of you may not know her, but she works tirelessly to keep the club’s finances in order
Even without having children at the club anymore, she still gives her time daily , which is absolutely incredible
And, a huge shoutout to our Head Coach Jonathan Tuffrey and Deputy Head Coach Lee Burkill
They ensure our coaching team is always supported and that training sessions run smoothly, while developing programmes that help every swimmer reach their full potential
You are all amazing THANK YOU
Nicola
March 25th
Training cancelled Easter Weekend
There will be no training on Friday 3rd April (C squad and lifesaving) and Saturday 4th April 2026 (A and B squad), as it is Easter weekend, so we have limited coaches available.
Wishing @everyone a very Happy Easter
Nicola
March 28th
Bridlington Summer Splash
I have just been contacted by Bridlington to say that the entry opening date has been moved to later in April.
If you were eagerly waiting for your entry to appear on Openmeets you can relax until the 25th April.
If you thought that you had missed the entry deadline you now have until Wednesday 22nd April to make entries. Please use the original Google form which is still live.
Sorry for the confusion, out of my control.
Shirley
ARMTHORPE SWIMMING CLUB
The Annual General Meeting of Armthorpe Swimming Club will be held on
Monday 20th April commencing at 7.30pm
Venue: Armthorpe Community Centre
AGENDA
1. Apologies
2. Minutes of the Previous AGM and Matters arising from those minutes
3. Chairs Report
4. Financial Report
5. Annual Reports – Welfare Report
Life Saving Report
Swim England Affiliation Report
6. Election of Officers
7. Any Other Business
Officers of the Club
Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, Head Coach, Membership Secretary, Equipment Co-ordinator, Competitions Secretary, Swim England Affiliation Co-ordinator, Life Saving Secretary.
Nominations for election of members to any office or for membership of the Committee should be made in writing and signed by the Nominee, the Proposer and the Seconder. These should be to the Secretary no later than Sunday 29th March 2026.
March 23
Kingfishers.. this is a shout out to all those
... who show up - for better or worse - when it matters, and even when it doesn't!
... who put their arms round those who are struggling or upset
... who face an inner struggle - either against pain or confidence, but still swim
... who hold the youngest swimmers by the hand and tell them "you've got this"
... who put younger siblings before themselves
... who sacrifice family time to be taxi, referee, team manager, Head Coach, coach, official, meet organiser, spectator, swimmer
... who overcome jet lag to compete for their club
... leave everyone else at home to come and support their friends
... whose PBs have dried up (for now) but still swim for their team
... are happy for the success of others, even when it's not gone too well for themselves
... volunteers - who just quietly get on, without fuss or expectation
... who "give back"
... who hold the future of our club in very safe hands
... chase their dream - even when it looks a long way off
... sit for hours in cars, traffic, spectator areas, folding chairs - even if it is just for one race
... who notice the small wins
... senior swimmers who are always there for each other and for the club... because it is in their bones
... who never give up - on themselves, or each other
... who are crying inside, but put on a brave face
... who face the early starts and late finishes with a courage that inspires
... who may never be the stars, but still shine
... whose experience might have been missed from these thoughts
We see you
We value you
Thank you!
mary
March 22nd
Harrimans Success
What a brilliant day at The Harrimans!
So many first-time racers, nerves were there, but every swimmer got up, raced, and came away smiling. Superstars
PBs everywhere across the squad and fantastic team spirit on show. They were supportive, positive, and represented the club brilliantly
The “Double Lucas” 50m Free was a highlight… epic racing and pushing each other all the way, both now into 26s
Shoutout to Khloe Andre for the jokes of the day… still making us laugh!
A special mention to Miranda, Sam and Ben H for their help poolside, a huge thank you from the poolside team, exactly the attitude we love to see and really appreciate
Thank you to all swimmers, parents, coaches and volunteers for your amazing support!
Kingfishers you are fantastic!
Jonathan
Find all results from the Harrimans Gala under our competition results page
Henry
Arthur
Maisy
Henry and Ellis
Harrimans Gala
First race ever?
Nerves? Completely normal.
For some of you, The Harrimans or The Schofields will be your first experience of a swim meet — for both swimmers and parents. Here are a few simple tips to help the day run smoothly and make it an enjoyable experience for everyone:
What to bring:
Two towels (one for poolside, one for after)
A drink and a small snack (nothing messy please — bins are available)
Spare kit if you have it (goggles, hat, costume). Not essential, but helpful if something breaks
On the day:
Please no mobile phones in changing rooms — this is really important to respect everyone’s privacy
Swimmers should let a team manager know if they leave poolside at any time
At the end of the session, swimmers must check out with a team manager before going home
For swimmers:
It’s okay to feel nervous — everyone does
Focus on your own race and enjoy the experience
Give it your best effort and be proud of yourself
For parents:
Your support means everything — a smile and encouragement go a long way
Let the coaches handle the swimming, your role is to help the swimmers enjoy it
Most importantly — this is about learning, gaining experience, and having fun.
Kingfishers
Head high. Enjoy it.
Jonathan
March 19th
Following on from Kinglsey's video on this topic area aimed at our young Kingfisher swimmers, the latest production highlights the key concepts of 'Diversity and Inclusion' for all involved in the club.
This issue is a key component of the Swim England accreditation process which enables the club to operate.
Keith
March 17th
HARRIMANS GALA
Sunday 22nd March at Adwick Leisure Centre.
This gala is age at 31st December 2026
Session One 8yrs&Under. 9yrs. 11yrs. 13yrs. 15yrs
Arrive by 12.10pm Warm up 12.30pm.
Session Two 10yrs. 12yrs. 14yrs. 16yrs& over.
Arrive by 3.40pm. Warm up 4pm.
Spectator tickets at the door. PLEASE BRING CASH.
If you are unsure about anything please message me or I will be at training all week.
Thank you
Shirley
Harrimans Gala
Reminder that parents/carers are not allowed in the changing rooms.
Please arrive swim ready if your child struggles with independent changing.
Spectators entry is £5 CASH ONLY
Shirley
March 13th
I’ve made a group just for Armthorpe where we can all buy and sell good quality pre loved swimming equipment- costumes, fins, bags, goggles etc…
A great way to save some pennies
Nicola
BML Adwick 7th March
Great Start for the Team
A fantastic first round of the BML with brilliant effort from all swimmers. The racing, team spirit and support on poolside were excellent all afternoon
Big stat from the day:
57 swims were faster than entry times, meaning more than half of our races were improved times. That’s a brilliant sign that swimmers are stepping up when it counts
Stroke Highlights
Breaststroke and butterfly were particularly strong
Freestyle depth really shone through in the relays.
Relay Power
The relays were a big highlight with strong performances across the board the effort and teamwork from everyone was outstanding.
Great Across the Age Groups
It was fantastic to see strength right through the club, especially from our 9–10 and 11–12 swimmers, who put in some brilliant performances and showed how strong the next generation of the club is.
Tough Racing for Boys 13–14s
This group faced particularly strong competition, with some clubs fielding older swimmers including national athletes, but our swimmers competed really well and they all posted improved times
Team Effort
Overall this was a really balanced performance with everyone contributing to the result.
Huge well done to all swimmers for the effort, attitude and team spirit.
Plenty to build on as we head into Round 2!
Jonathan
March 3rd
Information for BML - Saturday 7th March 2026
Doors open: 4pm, if you arrive before this time please wait outside
Warm up: 4:15pm
Spectator tickets: £4 Cash only
Mobile phones: Reminder no mobile phones in the changing rooms.
Changing room: No adults in the changing room at anytime. If your child requires extra assistance then please speak with Nicola SK or Jonathan Tuffrey before Saturday, so we cNicola SKplanJonathan Tuffreyekeepers/ Officials: Please report to the Adwick ASC Club Room, which is along the corridor from the changing rooms, when you arrive.
Swimmers: Please ensure a team manager is aware if you are leaving poolside.
Wishing all the swimmers good luck and enjoy the event.
Any questions or concerns please speak with me, Jon or Lee Burkill
Nicola
March 2nd
Swim England
March 1st
March Sprints
Well done to all the swimmers in both sessions; some excellent performances and PBs. Thank you to all the volunteers who stepped up to ensure the smooth running of the Gala and as always thank you to the coaches and team managers who prepare the swimmers and support them always.
Shirley
Great Gala and great effort and enthusiasm from all our swimmers! You make us proud every time.
Mary
Stephen Tuffrey
An outstanding performance from our swimmers at the Mad March Sprints.
Special congratulations to Corey and Emily for achieving top Boy and Girl in their respective age categories , an exceptional result.
(report to follow )
Lee
February28th
February 26th
Kingfishers!
Sprint squad understand the assignment.
When it comes to speed? Yeah… we’re built different. Blocks set. Goggles on. No chill. Let’s hit the water and absolutely cook these races.
Key Info:
- Sunday 1st March
- Venue: Adwick Leisure Centre
- Pool: Short course (25m)
Session Times:
Session 1
- Arrive by 11:45 PM
- Warm-up be ready at 12:15 PM
Session 2
- Arrive by 15:15 PM
- Warm-up be ready at 15:45 PM
Spectator Info:
- Tickets: don’t forget your tickets!!
- Parents you will not be allowed in the changing rooms at all. Please stay out. Swim England and Adwick Leisure Centre are very strict on this!
Other bits:
- Age groups are based on swimmer’s age on 1st March 2026
- Can’t swim? Let us know ASAP so we can make withdrawals.
- Yellow Kingfisher hats only please!
Important Reminders
- No phones in change rooms. If seen with your phone in the changing area you will be disqualified from the whole event. Keep phones in bags/pockets.
- Swimmers stay in touch with coaches and always check in before leaving
- Cheer your teammates on!
First race ever?
Nerves? Normal. You’re entering your main character era…
Parents & Swimmers:
We know that for some of you this is your first experience of racing, here are a few things that will help you all enjoy the afternoon, and set you up future events as well:
- Bring two towels - one for poolside and one for getting changed at the end.
- Bring a drink and something small to eat that won’t make a mess. Please put litter in the bins provided.
- Ideally it is best to have two items of all swim kit, 2 goggles, 2 costumes and two hats. (It is not essential for this meet, so don’t go out rushing to buy extra stuff, but it is good practice in case anything breaks)
- Please do not use mobile phones in changing rooms, it is REALLY important that we respect everyone’s privacy. Keep phones in bags/pockets!
- Your safety; swimmers should let team managers know whenever they leave poolside so we know where everyone is. This is especially important at the end, please make sure your swimmer checks out with team managers before they go home.
Most importantly: have fun, empty the tank and smile wearing your goggles.
Kingfishers. Head high. Send it.
Jonathan
February 25th
March Sprints
MARCH SPRINTS SUNDAY 1st March
Adwick Leisure Centre. Final info from the organisers.
Session 1 warm up starts at 12.20pm
Session 2 warm up starts at 3.50pm.
You can check entries and sessions on Openmeets.
You should have been give a prepaid ticket, no ticket no entry.
There will be a programme to purchase on the day.
No one will allowed into the building before 12.15pm.
Parents/carers are not permitted in the changing rooms under any circumstances.
Please ask if you are unsure about anything.
Shirley
February 24th
BML Adwick 2026
Saturday 7th March Adwick Leisure Centre
Kingfishers,
Our first Barnsley Minors League event of 2026 is almost here.
Thank you to everyone who has completed the availability form — it really helps with selection.
We’re still awaiting 27 responses, so please complete it ASAP if you haven’t already.
We always try to give as much notice as possible, but with outstanding replies we’re unable to finalise the full squad just yet.
Congratulations to the swimmers selected for our first Premier League BML gala of 2026 — a fantastic team achievement.
This is a true team event. Race for each other. Support one another. Be proud to represent the Kingfishers.
If you haven’t been selected this time, I’m happy to provide feedback. More opportunities will come. Keep working hard and enjoy your swimming.
Selected swimmers, please confirm your attendance with Nikki Kirk.
Jonathan
February 23rd
KINGSLEY'S KORNER
Latest club video highlighting Diversity and Inclusion.
February 21st
Yorkshire Championships
Spring Yorkshire Championships
Final Weekend and what a way to finish!
We had 19 swimmers racing – 12 Armthorpe and 7 with Dartes – and we were right behind every single one of them.
This was our sprint weekend
From 24 Armthorpe swims, we delivered an outstanding 16 PBs, some of them HUGE!
We also had three fantastic finals swims from:
• Lucas Stallard
• Laura Garbacik
• Ander Drury
Laura finished a superb 8th in 50FR, while Ander and Lucas both powered to bronze in 50BR.
Racing a final shortly after heats is tough, but none of them went slower. All matched or improved their time and position. Excellent race craft.
Our Dartes swimmers impressed again with 9 PBs from 18 swims. Highlights included:
• James & Sofia 4th in 50FLY / 50BR
• Jack making two finals (50BR & 50FR)
• Sofia missing bronze by just 0.01s
• James finishing with a brilliant silver in 50BK
Incredible swimming all round.
Thank you to our swimmers for their courage and commitment, and to our parents for the constant positivity and support, that’s what makes this swim family so special.
And finally, a huge thank you to our coaching team. The time, care and energy invested week in, week out is what underpins some incredible achievements. We’re proud of the results, but even prouder of the people who make up our Armthorpe swim family.
A very successful Yorkshires all round.
March Sprints next! LET’S GOOO!!
Jonathan
Alexander Drury
Bronze Medal 50m Breaststroke
Wonderful achievement!
Lucas Stallard
Bronze Medal 50m Breaststroke
Amazing achievement!
Ponds Forge
Great day at the Yorkshire Sprints Championships with all our swimmers performing well; there were pb's galore and several finalists and medallists. Thank you to the parents and followers who were so supportive of all our swimmers and made a long day enjoyable in addition to the swimming Special mention to the coaches and team managers, not only for today but for all the work that goes into getting these swimmers ready to perform at every gala.
A huge thank you!
Shirley
Arthur and Jonathan
Jonathan
Miranda and Jonathan
Sam and Jonathan
Claire Nikki
Claire Nikki Jonathan
Great day, not only did they give it their all, they was also impeccably behaved and we really cannot ask for more. An absolute pleasure Jonathan Tuffrey Nicola SK
Claire
Miranda, Laura and Jennifer
Lucas, Corey, Sam and Ben
Zane, Jakub and Arthur
Emily and Laura
Emily, Laura and Miranda
Laura and Miranda
February 19th
No A squad training on Saturday 21st February 2026
Unfortunately there is no A squad training on Saturday due to coaches availability.
B squad training will go ahead as usual.
Nicola
February 19th
The final weekend of the Yorkshire Championships will see 19 of our swimmers competing with the best in Yorkshire at Ponds Forge.
Weekend 3 is sprint weekend, and sprinting is our strength. Let’s go show everyone our fire power
On Saturday 21st Feb, Armthorpe morning swimmers please all arrive latest 7:15am. Afternoon swimmers please arrive no later than 12 noon.
February 19th
Everyone please show your support to:
Arthur Fillingham
Jakub Garbacik
Jennifer Powell
Miranda Burkill
Lucas Stallard
Sam Fisher
Zane Knowles
Laura Garbacik
Ander Drury
Emily Kirk
Ben Hatton
Corey Irvine
Ben Gilson
Oscar Dewsnap
Ray Chapman
Sofia Sanders
Jack Jones
James Ellis
Abi Fisher
Rocket Mode, Full Send…
Jonathan
March Change to Gala Events
March Change to Gala Events
February 16th
With Dartes stepping away from the BML competition, we’ve updated the calendar. It does make March a little less hectic for some of us…!
Jonathan
February 15th
SUMMER SPLASH SWIMMING GALA
We’re making a splash this summer! Join us for an action-packed Swimming Gala, proudly hosted by our friends over at Doncaster Dartes
Date: Sunday 5th July
Location: John Charles centre for sport Leeds
Expect friendly competition, and plenty of poolside excitement for swimmers aged 9yrs - 15yrs & Over Whether you’re competing or cheering from the sidelines, come along and be part of a fantastic day.
Lee
Find fill details in our Gala calendar page
February 13th
The All Party Parliamentary Group for Swimming have launched an inquiry into the state of facilities
Swim England will be championing the importance of swimming pools and the need for investment.
Have your say here https://bit.ly/4rdHwwj
Responses will close on the 23rd February.
Mary
February 14th
Calling all parents/carers we need volunteers for Sunday 1st March
We are in need for volunteers to help out at the March Sprints gala on Sunday 1st March. If you are able to assist with roles such as timekeeping and poolside helpers then please let me know.
Thanks, Nikki
February 12th
We will confirm that swim traning at the pool is ON for tonight.
February 11th
No A or B squad training tonight - Wednesday 11th February due to pool closure.
Sorry for the inconvenience, this is out of our control. We will confirm about tomorrow once we have more information.
Nicola
And it's European Gold for Lucas!
From everyone at Armthorpe Kingfishers Swimming club: Hearty Congratulations on your well deserved success in Italy.
Lucas with his gold and silver medal haul
The Iceman Delivers
Lucas Johnson. What a week. What a swimmer.
Last week, Lucas raced 7 times in water temperatures below 3°C… and produced something seriously special.
Gold – 50m Breaststroke
Gold – 100m Breaststroke
Silver – 50m Freestyle
Silver – 100m Freestyle
He also played a huge role in three relays, helping GB to two heat wins before they placed 8th overall out of 32 countries — plus a second in the VIP Mixed Country Relay, narrowly missing bronze by just 0.2 seconds.
And then came the breakthrough moment…
Finally smashing the 30-second barrier in the 50m Freestyle.
Lucas now holds four British Junior Records and was the fastest Brit in the Italian Ice last week:
50m Breaststroke (1.4°C)
50m Freestyle (2.3°C)
100m Freestyle (2.8°C)
Add in an interview with one of GB’s official sponsors and it’s safe to say…
European Junior King of the Ice.
Pretty special stuff, Lucas. More to come…
Jonathan
Lucas with his gold and silver medal haul
The Iceman Delivers
Lucas Johnson. What a week. What a swimmer.
Last week, Lucas raced 7 times in water temperatures below 3°C… and produced something seriously special.
Gold – 50m Breaststroke
Gold – 100m Breaststroke
Silver – 50m Freestyle
Silver – 100m Freestyle
He also played a huge role in three relays, helping GB to two heat wins before they placed 8th overall out of 32 countries — plus a second in the VIP Mixed Country Relay, narrowly missing bronze by just 0.2 seconds.
And then came the breakthrough moment…
Finally smashing the 30-second barrier in the 50m Freestyle.
Lucas now holds four British Junior Records and was the fastest Brit in the Italian Ice last week:
50m Breaststroke (1.4°C)
50m Freestyle (2.3°C)
100m Freestyle (2.8°C)
Add in an interview with one of GB’s official sponsors and it’s safe to say…
European Junior King of the Ice.
Pretty special stuff, Lucas. More to come…
Jonathan
February 7th
Spring Yorkshires
Saturday afternoon Ander Drury & Lucas Stallard line up for the 100m breaststroke.
Sensible start time. Big race energy. Eyes on the walls lads!
Big cheers to our Dartes swimmers too.
Go smash it gang!
Join me in sending some energy to everyone racing this weekend
Jonathan
Feb 5th
After the Success Of our Sheffield steelers trip , I’m please to announce our next kingfishers event !!!!!
All Kingfishers & family welcome .
Lee
Feb 3rd
ll ritorno dell’Iceman
Big news from Italy as our very own Lucas The Iceman Johnson takes on the IISA European Open Championships in Molveno…
First up: Lucas has been officially selected for both GB Mixed Relay Teams! An incredible achievement and testament to his hard work and bravery.
Here’s how his week lines up:
• Monday: Opening Ceremony - GB flag bearer
• Wednesday (AM): 50m Breaststroke
• Wednesday (PM): 4x50m Mixed Freestyle Relay – Anchor leg
• Thursday (AM): 100m Breaststroke
• Thursday (PM): 4x50m Mixed Medley Relay – Breaststroke leg
• Friday: 50m Freestyle
• Saturday: 100m Freestyle
With some strong European competition, the focus is on racing hard, chasing times, and building experience as part of his Junior/U18 European journey.
From club sessions to the European stage, we couldn’t be prouder.
Go get it, Lucas, we’re with you all the way (from where it’s warmer)!
Jonathan
#TheIcemanReturns #ProudClub #GBSelection #EuropeanStage #HardWorkPaysOf
February 2nd
Masterclass announcement
Harvey Williamson
A Squad Swimmers
Will be great to see Harvey back at Armthorpe!!
Lee
January 30th
Costume Guidance… message for ALL swimmers
Good morning, everyone. Further to our earlier post regarding “Costume Guidance” - could we emphasise that the guidance applies to swimmers across all squads. This is a strategy aimed at safeguarding swimmers of ALL ages, along with our volunteers - whether they be coaches or helpers. Please look again at the two options and make your choice so that the club can function effectively and with due regard to the importance of safeguarding best practice. Many thanks
Mary
January 29th
Parents’ Notice
We’ve noticed a recent increase in swimmers sitting out of training, spending extended time adjusting goggles, and taking multiple toilet breaks during sessions.
We completely understand that swimmers may occasionally need the toilet and that goggles sometimes need adjusting. However, repeated breaks (e.g. 3–4 times in a single session) can disrupt training and affect focus and progress.
If a swimmer has a medical condition that requires frequent toilet breaks or rest periods, please let the coaching team know so we can support them appropriately.
Otherwise, swimmers are expected to:
• Arrive prepared for training (including using the toilet beforehand where possible)
• Limit goggle adjustments to what’s necessary
• Remain engaged and in the water unless instructed otherwise by a coach
Thank you for your support in helping sessions run smoothly and ensuring all swimmers get the most out of their training
Lee
January 29th
Costume Guidance – Please Read
We understand that swimmers like to follow swimwear trends and wear the latest kit.
However, we’ve identified a safeguarding concern with tie-back costumes during training. If a swimmer needs the toilet mid-session, these costumes often can’t be managed independently, our coaches are uncomfortable when being asked to help with this.
For safeguarding reasons, coaches should not be placed in this position, and we are committed to maintaining clear professional boundaries at all times.
To be clear moving forward, one of the following must apply:
• Costumes that require tying or adult assistance are not worn to training, or
• A parent/guardian must be available to assist their child if they need to leave the pool mid-session
This isn’t about stopping fun — it’s about safeguarding swimmers, coaches, and the club.
Thank you for your understanding and support
Mary
Friday 23rd January
The Schofields Presentation Evening
Presentation Night
Lucas Johnson
Sub 1 minute 100m Freestyle Award
Top Boy/Girl Over 16s -
Vlad /Paige
Kingsley
Club Chair - Nikki
Pete Miranda Jonathan
Schofield’s Top Girl 14 years
Pete Lloyd Jonathan
Coach Award C Squad
Aria
Schofield’s Top Girl 11 years
Ben and Evie
Khloe & Kingsley
Three Award winners (L-R) Orla, Evie N and Finty.
Victoria Ludorum -
Swimmers who won all their races at the Schofield’s: including James, Lucas S, Lauren, Alice, Emily and Paige
Emily D, Maisy, Megan, Helena, Mia, Miranda and Laura
Two of our 7 NLA Bronze Star Awards - Emily D and Laura.
Some of our 15 NLA Bronze Certificate Awards - Life Saving: Rowan, Zeke, Ethan, Jakub and Nadia
Kelsey & Kingsley
Wednesday 21st January
20th January
Fri 23rd Jan 26 - Schofield’s Presentation Night
A massive thank you for all these donations
No entry fee or tickets required though raffle tickets will be on sale at £2 a strip (cash only), all proceeds will go direct to our club.
Claire
Sheffield, Level 1, Winter Open meet
13th January
James Ellis was competing alongside Swimming legends and Olympic champions like James Guy and Matt Richards. He swam in 9 events and came away with 2 GOLD medals in the 50m fly and 200m Back, 3 SILVER Medals in the 50m backstroke, 100m Fly and 100m freestyle as well as 3 bronze medals in the 100m backstroke, 200IM and 50m freestyle. He also came away with a huge 9 second PB in his 200m fly. A really exciting weekend for James!
COSSS Winter Meet 2026
Another event this weekend for two of Armthorpe’s Greats! Sofia Sanders and James Ellis will be representing DARTES and rubbing shoulders with Olympians this weekend at Ponds Forge!
Stand tall, be confident and swim fast! We’re right behind you.
Jonathan
The results
The results
Hi,
I just wanted to say thank you to Jonathan Tuffrey for his post the other day, wishing our Kingfishers 'Iceman' Lucas Johnson well for The Really Cold Swimming Championships @ Rother Valley & Let you know how he got on (if you haven't seen already)
Lucas raced & completed all four of his events yesterday, in truly baltic outdoor conditions & a water temperature of 2.1 degrees (The coldest he's ever swam in before) But he did himself & the club proud once again, coming away with three gold medals, in the 50m Breaststroke, the 100m Freestyle & the 100m Individual Medley... & took Silver in his last event of the day 50m Freestyle.
In those conditions, very courageous & outstanding. achievements I'm sure you'll agree. But also great experiences & practice, for the next stop on his Ice swimming journey, which will be in Molveno, Italy, with Team GB in February
Thanks for all your good wishes for him this weekend I'm sure he'll thank you himself when he see's you back at the pool for training on Wednesday
Let's go Kingfishers & all the best to you all for 2026
Aaron.
The Iceman Returns
This weekend, Armthorpe Kingfishers’ Lucas Johnson heads into one of the toughest tests in the sport as he competes in The Really Cold Championships at Rother Valley. It’s an event where calm thinking, control and courage are essential. Iceman stuff!
Following his fantastic performances at the GB Championships in Scotland, Lucas currently sits 10th overall in the 2025/26 World Cup Series Ice Swimming Rankings! An outstanding achievement and a real credit to his dedication, resilience and composure.
Sunday’s race programme:
• 10:40 – 50m Breaststroke
• 11:45 – 100m Freestyle
• 13:55 – 100m Individual Medley
• 14:50 – 50m Freestyle
Calm under pressure. Brave in the cold.
Lucas represents some strong Armthorpe Kingfishers values.
You don’t need luck but you can have it anyway! Good luck this weekend Iceman, we’re all behind you.
Jonathan
Spring Yorkshires 2026
I’m sure you will all join me in congratulating the following 13 swimmers for achieving Yorkshire qualifying times for the spring Yorkshire Championships 2026!
Miranda Burkill Alexander Drury. Arthur Fillingham Sam Fisher Jakub Garbacik Laura Garbacik
Benjamin Hatton Corey Irvine Lucas Johnson Emily Kirk Zane Knowles Jennifer Powell Lucas Stallard
Also well done to 7 of our DARTES swimmers who have also achieved qualifying times:
Ray Chapman Oscar Dewsnap James Ellis Abigail Fisher Ben Gilson Jack Jones Sofia Sanders
(Entries via DARTES)
The closing date for entries is 14th January 2026, so please let me know via direct message to confirm the swims you want to race. I need your confirmation by 5pm 12th January to complete the entry admin in time. A screenshot of which swims are eligible for each (Armthorpe) swimmer is below.
Races are £6 each and are split between John Charles in Leeds and Ponds Forge in Sheffield.
Well done to all swimmers once again!
Jonathan
Monday 5th January
Harrogate Janus Meet 2026
Well done Kingfishers!
Another fantastic weekend of racing and our first time competing in Harrogate. The meet was brilliantly organised, at a great venue and in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with a huge range of events.
Our swimmers showed real confidence and ambition, stepping up to new challenges with many racing 200m and 100m events for the very first time. Their bravery paid off with a brilliant haul of personal bests across the team
There were a small number of disqualifications, and the way swimmers responded was outstanding. They showed true mental resilience to bounce straight back and post PBs in their very next races. Exactly the mindset we love to see
Special shout-out to Sam
• An outstanding 400 IM — laser-focused pre-race, composed throughout and a strong fast finish for another impressive PB
• And going sub-30 in the 50m Freestyle for the first time!
Fantastic swimming, well done Sam
Huge thanks to our coaches, team managers and parents for their continued support. And to all our swimmers, your attitude, behaviour and team spirit were exemplary.
Awesome work, Kingfishers!
Jonathan
Stephen
Stephen and Noah
Evan, Ray, Zane, Harrison
Finty, Evie N, Jessica Abigail
Jessica, Abigail, Evie N, Kelsey and Eleanor
Zane and Alexandeer B
Sunday 4th January
And it's Gold!
Congratulations to Evie G as she achieves 3 gold medals for 400m free, 200m back and 100m breaststroke at this weekend’s Janus Meet at Harrogate!
January 2nd
Harrogate Janus 2026
Happy New Year Kingfishers!
First race of the year and can’t wait to get back at it! The weather forecast is looking cold so please give yourselves plenty of time to get there. The Sunday session last year was nearly snowed off!
Key info:
- It’s at Harrogate Leisure and Wellness Centre, Jenny Field Drive, Harrogate. HG1 2RP
- It’s short course / 25m pool
- Age groups are based on the swimmer’s age as of 4th January 2026
- Morning sessions – Arrive by 7:30 AM, warm-up at 8:00 AM,
- Afternoon sessions – Arrive by 12:30 PM, warm-up at 1:00 PM
Please double-check your entries and session times via the Google form you submitted.
Reminders:
- Wear your yellow Kingfishers hat so we can easily support each other poolside.
- Stay in touch with coaches and check in before leaving.
- No mobile phones in the changing rooms at all!
- Have fun and support your team mates.
Give it everything and enjoy the experience.
! Let’s get at it Kingfishers !
Jonathan
Welcome to 2026
Welcome to 2026
What a great way to start of 2026 with the news that Lucas is now a qualified lifeguard. Hearty congratulations from all at Kingfishers.
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