Archie Hare from Richmond Dales ASC beat 100m swim record

At just 16 years old, Archie Hare, a fiercely competitive and sport-mad teenager from North Yorkshire, is making headlines in the world of para-sport.

Despite his age, the teenager, from the Para swim Squad at Richmond Dales ASC, recently achieved a major milestone by breaking a long-standing record in the S11 100m Breaststroke, previously held by Paralympic legend Tim Reddish, CBE.

Archie Hare (Image: Dave Phillips Photography) Despite narrowly missing out on a place at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, Archie is determined to represent his country at the highest level by 2028.

Archie, who is registered as severely sight impaired due to a rare genetic condition known as severe retinal dystrophy, has never let his vision impairment define him.

"I’ve never let my vision impairment be an issue," said Archie. 

"I’ve always decided what I want to do and pushed to do it. Sport is a massive part of my life, and I think there is a sport for everyone – you just need to give it a go."

Archie Hare in a starting position ready to race in the pool (Image: Dave Phillips Photography) Archie’s journey in competitive swimming began when he was nine, quickly discovering his natural talent in the pool.

He currently holds four British men's records in the S11 category, and last month, at the British Summer Championships, he broke Tim Reddish’s 24-year-old record in the 100m Breaststroke.

Archie’s father, Charlie, describes him as a "fish" in the water, with an innate talent that feeds his competitive nature.

"The hard work Archie has put into his swimming makes us incredibly proud. From the first moment of seeing him in the water, we knew he was something special," said Charlie.

Archie Hare (Image: Dave Phillips Photography) This year, Archie was invited to trials for the Paralympic Games in Paris.

While he didn’t make the team, he achieved a personal best and gained invaluable experience. He was also invited to join the Paralympic Inspiration Programme (PiP), where he will travel to Paris this August to learn more about the Games and prepare for future competitions.

Alongside family support, charity Guide Dogs has been supporting Archie’s journey, with funding provided by North Yorkshire County Council.

Senior Habilitation Specialist Andrew Lambert has been working with Archie to enhance his mobility and independence.

Most read:

• Hospices at crisis point facing 'unsustainable' financial pressures
• Horror as County Durham mum killed by ottoman bed which fell trapping her neck
• County Durham woman stabbed partner in back after drunken domestic row

Get more from The Northern Echo with a digital subscription. Get access to the latest offer for annual or monthly subscription. Click here for details.

With the help from Andrew, Archie is gaining the skills and confidence to navigate the world independently as he prepares to start his A levels.

 "I like working with Andrew; he’s good at taking the time to explain things to me," added Archie.

As Archie continues to pursue his dreams, he is not only a rising star in British para-sport but also a source of inspiration for other young people facing similar challenges, carrying forward the legacy of para-athletes like Tim Reddish.