Fast Start for Ridge Meadows Titans competitive swim team!
The Ridge Meadows Titans swim club has been riding a wave this competitive swimming season, with success in two early meets. The first was held at UBC on Oct. 21 and 22, followed by one in Langley on Nov. 4 and 5.
“These young athletes have set the pool on fire and left an indelible mark, setting the tone for an electrifying season ahead,” said Mike Jakac-Sinclair, assistant coach. “The Titans’ journey through these aquatic battles was nothing short of awe-inspiring.”
At the VPSC Fall Invitational at UBC, the National Development group delivered standout performances including Denys Tymchuck’s 200m back, Sunny Sandhu’s 100m freestyle, Juan Arango’s 200 I.M., and Ryan Leslie’s 100m backstroke, each setting new personal bests after a year. The Provincial and Divisional Development groups made an impression with Angelina Kozerasky’s 50 free, Julia Longmuir’s 100 back, Charlotte Beatty’s 200 back, and Evelyn Shang’s performance in the 50 breaststroke.
Leslie took eight medals in various events, with three gold, three silver and two bronze. Kirin Bullock had three gold medals, two silver and a bronze. Tymchuck had two silver and a bronze. Arango took a silver medal, and Daniel Hai two gold. Brooklyn Tetzlaff also had a gold.
The next meet saw the Titans send 48 talented swimmers to compete for Ridge Meadows – the most ever sent by the club. The Titans “showed their unwavering dedication and commitment to the sport,” said the coach, noting they achieved personal bests, emerged victorious from their heats, and secured prominent positions in the finals. An impressive 82 per cent of the team achieved their best times during the weekend, which he called a testament to the tireless hard work and preparation they put in.
A few young stars emerged as standout performers. Benjamin Chen made a debut in the finals for his 50 free and 50 back. Sophia Lewin amazed with her quick 100 breaststroke. The RMSC National Development group led the charge, with Daniel Hai’s remarkable 50 free landing him in the coveted “24-second club,” noted Jakac-Sinclair. Brooklyn Tetzlaff’s performance saw her qualifying for finals in all her events and achieving a personal best in her 800m free. She won a silver and a bronze medal. Captain Keenan Gander showcased top-notch skills in his 400m free, 200m and 400m IM, said the coach, noting he also played a pivotal leadership role throughout the meet. Gander finished the meet with two gold and three bronze medals. Bullock had three silver and two bronze medals in the meet. On Nov. 25 and 26 the Titans are hosting their RMSC Fall Invitational at the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre.