Guyana’s first ever Carifta swimming medallist Jessica Stephenson reproduced her 2008 performance to snatch a gold medal in the 200m breaststroke event on Saturday the first day of the 2010 Carifta Swimming Championships in Jamaica.

According to Dr. Karen Pilgrim, Stephenson, competing in her favourite 200m event, bettered her personal best by 2.5 seconds swimming 2:46.33 almost 3.5 seconds ahead of her competition in the girls 13-14 200m breaststroke.

Guyana’s other representative Ronaldo Rodrigues produced a strong performance to reach the finals of the 13-14 boys’ breastroke event where he eventually placed eighth.

According to Dr. Pilgrim, Rodrigues had put in an exceptional performance in the preliminary heats where he shaved 7.5 seconds off his personal best to clock  2:48.39 enabling him to earn his place in the finals.

At the end of the day both swimmers were tired but pleased with their performances.

Coach Chris McAdam praised Jessica’s race technique and Ronaldo’s morning performance and thanked both swimmers for their hard work and dedication.

According to Dr. Pilgrim Mc Adam said he was looking forward to seeing them perform their best in the remaining two breaststroke events which take place today and tomorrow.

Yesterday the two swimmers competed in their least favourite events – the 50m butterfly for Rodrigues and the 200m freestyle for Stephenson in an effort to maintain their fitness.

Stephenson finished 11th with a time of 2:26.93 while Rodrigues improved on his entry time of 30.08, finishing 12th  with a time of 29.33.

Both swimmers are entered in the 50m breaststroke today.

Team Manager Dr. Pilgrim again expressed appreciation for the assistance of the main sponsors of the team – G.T & T Celllink, Cara Hotel, Scotiabank and DDL and for the confidence they have shown in the two talented swimmers.  Dr Pilgrim also acknowledged the support of the Guyanese community in Jamaica, particularly Mrs. Indera Persaud (Honorary Consul), Mr. Raymond Eytle and Dr. Sally Eytle.