Helena’s fin-ishing touch

Oct 9 2008 by Andrew Bowan, Whitchurch Herald

THE Ellesmere College Titans Swimming Club has welcomed Helena Kocourkova from the Czech Republic national fin swimming team to its coaching set up.

Helena joins British Olympic breaststroke double finalist Darren Mew and level three coach Jon Pardoe.

Fin swimming is seen as an excellent way for conventional swimmers to train. The permitted use of a monofin and snorkel makes the sport different.

Races can either be swum on the surface or underwater without a breath for 50m or with an oxygen bottle for longer events. As a result, fin swimming is much faster than conventional swimming.

It was from the Titans link with the Florida-based Race Club, that Titans head coach Jon Pardoe struck on the idea of working with a world-class fin swimmer.

Jon said “We’re delighted Helena is joining our coaching set-up. To excel in anything in life you have to dare to be different and try new methods. In conventional swimming the ability to swim fast underwater cannot be overstressed.

“The first 15m of every length can be swum underwater and swimmers who can master the technique have a significant advantage.”

Further details about joining the Ellesmere Titans can be found on www.ellesmerecollegetitans.co.uk or by phoning Jon on 07903 641668.