Guernsey swimmer Chloe Bown kicked off her long course season in style last weekend (8-9th February) as she competed at the Arena Lisbon International Meeting. Representing Mount Kelly while racing in the UK, the Guernsey Swimming Club member delivered a string of impressive performances, setting multiple personal bests and securing podium finishes.
Bown opened her campaign with the 200m Breaststroke, clocking 2:37.39 in the heats before powering to a silver medal in the final with a time of 2:35.08. She continued her success in the 200m Individual Medley, setting a personal best of 2:19.73 in the heats and then lowering it further to 2:18.21 in the final, securing another second-place finish.
Her strong form extended to the 200m Backstroke, where she entered the meet ranked 40th but defied expectations with a remarkable performance. Bown set a new personal best of 2:21.96 in the heats before improving again in the final with 2:20.34, earning an impressive fourth place.
Capping off a stellar weekend, Bown took on the demanding 400m IM, a straight final event. She delivered yet another personal best, touching in 4:55.68 to secure the bronze medal.
Reflecting on Bown’s achievements, Guernsey Swimming Club Head Coach Heather Jackson praised her dedication and determination:
“Chloe’s performances in Lisbon are a testament to her hard work and commitment. Achieving personal bests across multiple events, as well as securing podium finishes, is a fantastic way to start the long course season. Her ability to step up and compete at this level is incredibly exciting for the season ahead.”
With a strong start to 2025, Bown will be looking to build on these results as she continues her campaign in the long course season, aiming for further success in the months to come.