National Success for Winchester’s Iola Bellinger
22 Jul 2025
Iola Bellinger, who swims with the Age Performance squad, has made a splash on the national stage with a stunning performance at the Aquatics GB Next Gen Championships (formerly known as the British Summer Championships). Iola brought home a brilliant bronze medal in the Girls 15 Years 100m Breaststroke, clocking a personal best and new club record of 1:13.35 in the final.
Iola's remarkable swim came after qualifying from the heats in a strong 1:14.06. She showed real determination and composure under pressure, stepping up in the final to secure a place on the national podium.
But the 100m wasn’t the only highlight. Iola also placed 5th in the 50m Breaststroke Final, once again breaking the club record with a time of 34.06, improving both her heat time (34.39) and qualifying position (7th). In total, Iola made two national finals, set two personal bests, and achieved heat-to-final improvements in both events - an outstanding achievement on such a competitive stage.
These swims continue a season of excellence, with Iola’s 50m record marking the 24th club record set by a WCSC Age Group Performance swimmer this year. It’s a testament not only to Iola’s talent and determination, but also to the strength and depth of the club's coaching and squad structure.
Coach Chris White, who has worked with Iola since she was just 9 years old, was full of praise for her continued progress:
“It’s a fantastic achievement for Iola and great progression over the last three years at national level. Improving year after year shows her dedication and commitment. Personally, I was delighted, having coached her for so long, it’s incredibly rewarding to see all her hard work pay off.”
Iola’s success is also a team effort, with strong support from her family and training environment. Her parents, Jim and Jas, shared:
“We are very proud of Iola and her swimming achievements at this year’s Next Gen British Champs. Her hard work and dedication to training and racing has paid off.
We would like to thanks her coach Chris White, Winchester City Swimming Club, especially her training squad for all of their support”
Iola’s performance is an inspiration to younger swimmers at WCSC, showing what’s possible with commitment, perseverance, and passion. Congratulations, Iola!
British Swimming, Bronze Medalist, Future Champions, Club Record Setter, Age Group Swimming, British Championships 2025
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