Commonwealth Games – Glasgow 2026
Team Isle of Man continued its packed schedule at the Tollcross Aquatics Centre with a series of composed swims across the Women’s 100m Backstroke, Men’s 100m Butterfly, Women’s 100m Breaststroke and Men’s 400m Freestyle heats.
Libby Curphey placed fourth in her 100m Backstroke heat with 1:07.13, describing it as a step forward from yesterday. She said she is still adjusting to the scale of the event, noting it’s her first time competing in an environment of this size. “It takes a bit of getting used to… but it’s going well,” she said, adding that the atmosphere is now becoming a source of encouragement rather than apprehension.
Ella Justice delivered a strong swim in the same event, clocking 1:02.83. She said it was her first time this season breaking 62 seconds, matching form she last showed a year ago. Justice credited last week’s nationals in Sheffield as a good lead‑in to the Games and said she is “really enjoying” the overall experience.
In the Men’s 100m Butterfly, Peter Allen finished his heat in 55.90. He admitted some disappointment, having hoped to push for a semifinal spot, but said racing against world‑class opposition remains valuable. He added that yesterday’s relay performances showed his form is still strong heading into the rest of the week.
Laura Kinley produced a season’s best in the Women’s 100m Breaststroke, finishing in 1:12.15. She said it was her fastest swim of the year and spoke openly about the difficult build‑up, including a period earlier in the year when she was unable to get out of bed. “I didn’t think I’d be here… so to be able to race, I’m really pleased,” she said. Kinley now looks ahead to her main event later in the week, welcoming a day off before returning to competition on Monday.
Oscar Maddrell rounded out the session in the Men’s 400m Freestyle, finishing in 4:14.49. He said it wasn’t a PB but felt it was a solid effort following a strong time last week. Maddrell added that he loves the atmosphere and hopes his upcoming races will move forward from today’s performance.
It’s been a busy morning at Tollcross, but it isn’t over yet – more to follow here at Manx.News
