JAY Lelliott excelled for the ESSA England South Team at the UK Schools Games Gala in Ponds Forge, Sheffield.
The 16-year-old Portlander, who attends Royal Manor School and trains with Tornadoes of South Dorset, finished second in the 200m long course butterfly where he was just pipped to the touch by Luke Howdle.
Splitting first at the 50m mark in 27.88secs, Lelliott held the pace as he turned first at the 100m mark in sub minute and then again at the 150m mark in 1min 33.75secs.
However, despite a gallant last length, Howdle managed to pass the talented teenager in the final 10 metres in what was a gripping finale.
The silver medal marks Lelliott’s first foray on to the international scene and what a fantastic impact he made, beating some of the UK’s top up-and-coming swimmers by over three seconds.
His coach Phil Daniels was certainly impressed and believes his success at the event was just reward for the tremendous commitment he has shown in training.
He said: “Jay is a great kid to train. He is always focused and determined, and has that innate ability to concentrate on the job in hand.
“England colours only go to those who work, and work, and work, and Jay is certainly a worker.”
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