World champion Isle of Wight swimmer Zac Lacey has retained his 200m T21 title, showing true grit and determination to win at the World Down Syndrome Swimming Championships 2024 in Turkey.

The five-day championships, held in Antalya, got underway last Thursday (March 21) – the same day as the IW Sports Achievement Awards, where Zac’s sister accepted the Disability Snr Men’s Award on his behalf.

Zac, who swims with Seaclose Swimming Club and the IW Swimming Team, got off to a roaring start at the championships, securing a bronze medal alongside Team GB’s Dylan Williams, Will Reed and Mark Evens in the Open 4x100 Medley Relay.

Isle of Wight County Press: World champions Holly Sullivan, Zac Lacey, Mark Evens and Amalia FreelandWorld champions Holly Sullivan, Zac Lacey, Mark Evens and Amalia Freeland (Image: Down Syndrome Swimming GB)

Following his podium finish, Zac joined Amalia Freeland, Holly Sullivan and Mark Evens to take gold in the 4x100 T21 Medley Relay.

This afternoon (Monday, March 25), on the final day of the competition, Zac has retained his World Championship 200m T21 butterfly title.

Down Syndrome Swimming GB said the final was hard fought by Zac and required true grit and determination, earning him his place at the top of the podium.

Zac is also celebrating with his Team GB teammates as they retain their Best Team title on points at the 2024 Championships.