Flying Fisher - The Jewish Chronicle

Golden girl Hollie Fisher led Britain's charge for glory after making waves in Vienna. The 13-year-old from Rickmansworth recorded a stunning four gold medal haul after making a mockery of her competition. Fisher, who is a member of the Hillingdon Swimming Club, picked up nine medals in all as Team GB made a real splash the pool. The team returned with 19 medals following a richly successful tournament. Trevor Pears was another standout star as he claimed an astonishing four golds. Taking part in his first European Maccabi Games, Pears, 47, won the 50m butterfly, 50m, 100m and 200m freestyle. Looking back on a dream debut, Pears said: "I wasn't expecting to win, especially in 100-degree temperatures poolside. "I loved every minute of being part of the team. I'm very proud of being Jewish and being British. "It's important we're here and it's great to be in Vienna." Pears, the Chief Executive of the Pears Foundation, returned to the sport after a 15-year sabbatical. He warmed up for the EMG by taking part in the Middlesex Masters. He swam at county level in his teens but stopped aged 17. He now swims an hour a day, every day and is a member of the Swiss Cottage Swimming Club. Teenage talent Naomi Ayrton also showed her class by winning two gold, two silver and a bronze. She said: "It was a very proud moment to receive medals for my country. "The standard of the competition is very high and the American swimmers are very good." Like Fisher, Ayrton is a member of Hillingdon Swimming Club. Having competed at the JCC Games in Denver last year, this was a first EMG for the 14-year-old from Northwood. Ayrton said: "The EMG is much bigger and the atmosphere is better. The opening ceremony was really good. Emma Gibbor, the Junior Swimming manager, said: "The girls are doing really well and have beaten their personal bests in several races. "They approached the competition in a very professional manner. "To collect medals was a really proud moment for the girls and their families."