Joe’s report on his experience at his first international competition representing Great Britain

8th European Open Down Syndrome Swimming Championships

Joseph Edwards was selected to represent Great Britain for the first time at the European Championships 2025 in Portugal. As a junior, he competed in the 4 25m events, achieving a personal best in each. He was victorious in 25m freestyle, 25m backstroke, 25m breaststroke and 25m butterfly, returning home with 4 European gold medals.

In Joe’s 4 other open events at the European Championships, he achieved personal best times, coming 11th overall in 50m breast, 15th in 100m IM, 22nd in 50m butterfly and 23rd in 50m free. He was also part of an exhibition team in the male/open 4x50m freestyle relay gaining valuable international experience.

It was an impressive performance notwithstanding his age and previous experience. He flourished in the competition environment, and we look forward to his future progression. Joe has been a member of Verulam SC since January 2024. His first competition was at the British Down Syndrome Swimming Championships 2023, where he was talent spotted by DSS-GB as having potential.

Part of an exhibition 4x50 free relay team
Relishing his victory

Joe’s results contributed to the British team being awarded the Top European Team Trophy at the Championships.

Related Post

The 8th Open European Down Syndrome Swimming SC Championships 2025 took place at the municipal...

First International Training Camp for DSS-GB squad Saturday 24th May to Saturday 31st May 2025...

Our first training weekend of 2025 was a big hit with the 37 swimmers in...