The event being in Columbia “makes it even more exciting for us,” said senior swimmer Maggie Washer, “because we are right here in Columbia and a lot of our friends are able to come watch us swim. Plus being (one of) the host team(s), all eyes are on us so expectations are that much higher.”
While they finished out of the top eight, overall it was a productive day with many high placings such as freshman Katie Lydon placing 6th and 8th in the 100 breast stroke and 100 butterfly respectively, and the 400 freestyle relay team, consisting of Lydon, Lexi Perry, freshman Kelly Tackett, and Anna Wilcoxen, team placing 2nd overall in their race.
Even with these accomplishments, as well as many other swimmers improving on personal bests (Sammy See dropped four seconds in the 100 breast stroke), the highlight of the day was the performance of freshman Kelly Tackett. Tackett placed 1st overall in two events, the 200 freestyle and 500 freestyle, while also helping the 400 freestyle relay team finish 2nd.
An exceptional day got even better for Tackett when she learned she had qualified for state in the 500 freestyle with a time of 5 minutes and 9 seconds. A dominating performance like this is rare for any swimmer, but especially for a freshman who is participating in only her third meet as a member of the team.
“It’s exciting for us to watch her improve more and more throughout the season,” said Washer. “Swimming is as much a team sport as it is individual, so having one teammate qualify for state is an accomplishment for everyone. I know we’ll have more qualifications.”
Swimming and diving will continue their practices throughout Christmas break in preparation for their next meet, Jan. 4, against North Kansas City High School.
Sam Mitchell
