This year has been a whirlwind for Bolton Metro’s Mark Tompsett, who is now set to culminate his success with a debut at the Paralympic Games in Paris.

The 17-year-old swimmer, who clinched the European title in the Men’s S14 100m backstroke earlier this year, will proudly represent Paralympics GB next month - a significant milestone in his rapidly rising career.

The teenager’s ascent in competitive swimming has been nothing short of remarkable, despite only recently being classified in the S14 category for swimmers with intellectual impairments.

He has quickly established himself as a formidable competitor on the international stage.

At the World Para Swimming Series in Aberdeen, Tompsett earned bronze medals in the mixed classification 100m backstroke and 100m freestyle junior events. He also secured bronze in the Men’s S14 100m backstroke at the Aquatics GB Swimming Championships in London, where he achieved the crucial consideration time to confirm his place on the Paralympics GB team.

He also won gold in the Men’s S14 100m backstroke at the European Para Swimming Championships in Madeira, where he also set a new British record for the S14 100m backstroke in a time of 59.53secs.

As he prepares to compete in Paris, anticipation is building for what could be the defining moment of his young career to date.

He said, “It is a huge honour to represent GB. I’ve worked really hard for this opportunity. I am really excited about my swimming journey and my first Paralympic Games in Paris this summer.”

Tompsett’s swimming journey began at Chorley Marlins, where he developed his love for the sport. As his passion grew, he joined Bolton Metro Swim Squad aged nine to advance his training and pursue higher competition.

This move proved pivotal, providing him with specialised coaching and a high-performance environment crucial to his development as an elite swimmer.

Bolton Metro Swim Squad is a not-for-profit, fully inclusive performance squad that has nurtured his talent.

The club is dedicated to helping athletes reach their full potential, and Tompsett’s success is a testament to this commitment.

He has matured into a world-class athlete under the guidance of head coach Ric Howard, a Para British record-holder himself in 50m, 100m, and 200m butterfly. Howard’s experience has prepared the youngster for international competition, culminating in his Paralympic debut.

Howard said: “It’s amazing to see Mark compete on this stage.

“Having been Mark’s coach since he was 11 years old and managing his development, this story means much more than just a swimmer going to the Paralympics.

“It’s a journey that has seen highs and lows, and through determination, resilience, and hard work, it gives me, as a coach and Bolton Metro as a club, so much pride in the fact Mark will be representing GB at the highest level.

“From a little boy winning his first county championship to the big lad he is now, holding the British record, it’s an achievement we all know he deserves, and I’m sure he will grab the opportunity and do us all proud.

“Hopefully, Mark’s journey can inspire the next generation of swimmers in the local area to know they can achieve all they want with determination and hard work.”

Tompsett’s race in the men’s 100m backstroke S14 heats is scheduled for 9.47am on September 6 at the Paris La Défense Arena. If he qualifies, he will then compete in the final at 6.01pm later that day.

As he prepares to take on the world’s best, Bolton Metro Swim Squad continues to focus on developing the next generation of swimmers.

The club is holding open trials on September 8, offering young athletes the opportunity to join a team that values excellence and inclusivity.

These trials allow aspiring swimmers to experience the supportive environment and top-tier coaching that has been crucial to Tompsett’s journey.

* For more information about Bolton Metro Swim Squad and how to join, visit www.boltonmetro.com/join-us.