A FLINTSHIRE swimming baths is "incredibly proud" of a teenager who is set to represent Team GB at the Paralympics.
Rhys Darbey, from Connah's Quay, will compete in the S14 200m individual medley in his debut Paralympics.
The 16-year-old is part of the Flintshire-based Nofio Clwyd team and swims at Cambrian Aquatics in Connah's Quay.
Rhys began his swimming journey with Connah's Quay Swimming Club in September 2015 at the age of 8. His passion for local swimming galas and his progress through the club laid a strong foundation for his future success.
At age 10, Rhys joined the Junior Olympians programme at Nofio Clwyd, part of the Cambrian Aquatics network, which allowed him to train with the club once a week.
By age 11, he became a full-time member of the Nofio Clwyd Performance Centre, also part of Cambrian Aquatics.
In December 2018, Rhys made his national swimming gala debut in Swansea. Since then, he has trained at the Nofio Clwyd Performance Centre in Connah's Quay and also at the Manchester Performance Centre.
His dedication has earned him a spot on the Swim Wales National Squad for the past three years and, recently, on the Aquatics GB World Class Para Programme.
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Rhys’ hard work was rewarded with a silver medal at the Para World Championships in August 2023. This achievement paved the way for his qualification for the Paralympic Games, following trials in April 2024.
Steve Carney, of Cambrian Aquatics, said: "We are incredibly proud of Rhys and his remarkable achievements. His dedication, hard work, and perseverance have truly shone through, and it’s an honour to support him as he competes on the Paralympic stage.
"Rhys embodies the spirit of excellence and resilience, and we are thrilled to see him represent us with such distinction."
Rhys will be competing in the 200m Individual Medley (IM) event in Paris on September 1. His heat is at 11.47am on will be broadcast on Channel 4.
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