Borough of Southend swimmer Daniel Mason will be aiming to show the Dunkirk spirit when he takes part in the French Open Water Cup.

He earned his place after capturing the bronze medal for third place in the Open Water Championships in Nottingham.

Mason, who lives in Shoebury, competed in the 2000 metres in the categoryfor 17-24-year-olds and had a time of 25 mins.08 secs, with victory going to Khalid Jhugroo (24.39) from John Wood (25.02).

The first three home were told of their Dunkirk selection by Mike Hemmings of British Swimming following the Nottingham event.

An England Development squad is to be formed for open water swimming with up to eight participants being offered the chance to compete in France.

Apart from performances in Nottingham, other criteria used for selection were the British 5K Indoor Championships and performances at district and national 800 and 1,500m events.

The district are hoping to hold a distance development camp in February 2005 to coincide with ASA distance camps.

Published Thursday September 2, 2004

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