The 2026 Regional Open Water Championships in Cirencester delivered everything you would expect from a marquee summer event in the Cotswolds: fast racing, tough conditions, and standout performances. Set against the beautiful but unforgiving backdrop of open water, the day belonged emphatically to Team Nova.

Heat, Pressure, and Performance

From the early morning starts through to the final races, competitors faced relentless heat. With temperatures soaring throughout the day, managing energy, hydration, and pacing became just as critical as race strategy. The conditions tested every swimmer in the field, but Nova’s squad rose to the challenge with composure and strength.

A Dominant Showing from NOVA

Across multiple categories and distances, Nova swimmers produced an exceptional medal haul and consistently high placements. The results speak for themselves:

Gold Medal Performances

• Emily Riach dominated the 5K Female category with a commanding win.
• Olivia Tagg and Seren Mason both secured gold in the 2K Female event, showcasing incredible depth in the squad

Silver Medal Highlights

• Joel Harby impressed in the 5K Male category, taking silver in a competitive field.
• Thomas Buckley earned silver in the 2K Male event, continuing Nova’s strong presence across the board.
• Ellis Millington added another silver in the 3K Male race.
• Ivy Smalley contributed with a silver in the 2K Female event

Bronze Medal Finishes

• William Swindlehurst claimed bronze in the 5K Male category.
• Isabelle Tagg secured bronze in the 3K Female race.

Beyond the podium, numerous Nova swimmers placed strongly within the top ranks, underlining the team’s depth, consistency, and competitive edge.

Strength Across the Board

From the shorter distance races through to the endurance-focused 5K events, Nova swimmers demonstrated versatility and resilience. Whether it was sprint finishes or sustained pacing over longer distances, the team delivered across all disciplines.

Notable mentions include:

• George-James Holland and Alexander Lockwood in the 1K Male races
• Daisy Dell in the 1K Female race
• Logan Bates, Evie Leigh Smith & Amelia Crowe, both putting in strong performances in their respective events

Director of Coaching Joseph Stanford summed up the day:

“This result really highlights the strength and depth of our Nova programme. Every swimmer contributed to what was an outstanding team performance. We’re excited to carry this momentum forward and translate it into continued success in the pool programme.”

More Than Results

While the medal count tells a compelling story, what stood out most was the team spirit. In punishing heat and challenging open water conditions, Nova swimmers supported each other from start to finish, on the bank, in the water, and across every race.

Well done, Team Nova, stronger together, stronger than ever.