Marjon at the Commonwealth Games
Released: 27.04.18
Swimmers past and present from Plymouth Marjon University were amongst the 4,000 athletes from 70 different countries who took part in this year’s Commonwealth Games in Queensland, Australia from 4 – 15th April. They clocked up a number of personal bests and record breaking times, including a gold medal for former student, Ben Proud.
Marjon swimmer and Sport Development Management student, Thomas Fannon, scored a personal triumph in the 50m freestyle event, qualifying for the final with a joint fourth fastest finishing time of 22.09 seconds.
Former student, Ben Proud, who suffered disappointment early on in the games when he was disqualified for an early start in the first heat of the 50m freestyle, came back strong to secure a place in the final with a Commonwealth record, British record and personal best of 21.30 seconds. He then went on to secure gold in the final, finishing with a time of 21.35 seconds. Thomas clocked up a time of 22.35 seconds to finish the race.
Second year student and Leander swimmer, Jean-Luc Zephir, represented St Lucia in the 50m and 100m freestyle events, achieving personal bests in both. His win in the 50m heat saw him complete the race in 23.45 seconds, whilst in the 100m he achieved a time of 51.66 seconds.
Jean-Luc told us: “It was the most beautiful moment of my sports career! Entering the Village and rubbing shoulders with world class athletes was such a great opportunity. The opening ceremony was magical and I was very proud to represent not only my country, but Marjon, who without their guidance and support, I would not have had the opportunity.”
You can check out Jean-Luc’s 50m personal best here
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