The countdown to Glasgow 2026 has got a whole lot more interesting – and personal! For the first time in history, two sisters will go head-to-head in competition for their respective nations: Astrid Carroll (Scotland) and Ursula Carroll (England). These plucky teenagers have been training together at Stockport Metro Swimming Club and are about to unleash their rivalry on the world stage. The 100m freestyle S13 heats kick off on Friday morning, marking a landmark moment in para-swimming history.
Astrid, 17 and born in Edinburgh, will proudly don her Scotland colours, while younger sister Ursula, 14 and hailing from Halifax, will represent England – making her the youngest member of their team. Their family is in for a treat, with grandparents mulling over T-shirts featuring both Scottish and English flags to show their support! The Carroll sisters have always been a formidable force, but now they'll be racing each other – no easy feat, considering they're also coping with Stargardt disease, a rare eye condition that's affecting their central vision.
Under Commonwealth rules, visually impaired athletes from different categories will come together in a single category. Astrid usually swims in the S12 category and has tasted success in breaststroke and backstroke at last year's Para-swimming World Championships in Singapore. But Ursula excels in freestyle – watch this space! The sisters have adapted their techniques, with Astrid developing 'tappers' to alert her to turns, while Ursula speaks highly of Astrid as a motivation and inspiration.
The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games are the perfect stage for these young athletes to shine. Their story showcases not only their remarkable determination but also the unique bond that exists between them – one that will give way to fierce competition once they step onto the blocks. Get ready for an emotional rollercoaster as we witness this unprecedented sibling rivalry unfold in the pool!