Three Riversharks To Compete At YMCA State Swimming Championships (03/19/15)
(By Maureen Lavan)
When the water settled at PA West Swimiming Districts, three Clarion County YMCA Riversharks clinched spots at this weekend’s PA YMCA State Swimming Championships – Evelyn Lerch, Parker Boyden and Isaac Wilson. In the two weeks since District Championships, these Riversharks swimmers have focused their energy and training on the meet that will feature the best competitors in the state.
(Photos provided by Riversharks) Evelyn Lerch
“These swimmers are motivated and thrive in head-to-head competition,” said Riversharks Coach, Samantha Van Dyke. “They were unfazed by the challenge of preparing for such a competitive meet. Like all Riversharks, they train for each meet with the mentality of doing their personal best, the rest will take care of itself. I’m excited to see them compete and hope they enjoy the experience.”
States are a big deal. To qualify, a swimmer needs to place in the top 6-12 in the YMCA Western District Championships. The Pennsylvania State Swimming Championships will be held March 20-22 at Penn State’s McCoy Natatorium.
Evelyn Lerch (10) is having an amazing season in the 50 yard breaststroke. She posted the third-fastest and a personal best time of 39.28 at PA West Districts to secure an automatic berth in the 10 & Under 50 yard Breaststroke.
With perfect technique, Lerch glides almost effortlessly when swimming Breaststroke. She will be one to watch in her return trip to the States in this event.
Parker Boyden
In her first time qualifying for the States, Parker Boyden (10) is making a splash as she earned spots in both the 50 and 100 yard Freestyle. Her District event times were also her season and personal best. A talented swimmer, Boyden pulls out all the stops when she hits the water. Look for her to give the field quite a challenge.
An all-around athlete, Isaac Wilson (16), qualified for his 8th State meet in the 200 yard Individual Medley and the 500 yard Freestyle. At last year’s States he qualified in the 100 yard Backstroke. This season, his training really paid off in distance events.
The three day meet kicks off Friday with the Riversharks in action Sunday morning. These Riversharks are ready to go all out.
Isaac Wilson
The Clarion County YMCA Riversharks are a community-based swim team that emphasizes individual growth as part of a team. Boys and girls ages 5 through 18 are eligible to join. Team members come from throughout Clarion County.
For more information contact the Clarion County YMCA at 814-764-3400 or find the Riversharks on the web at http://www.clarioncountyymca.org/river-sharks-home .
(Thanks to Maureen Lavan for this story. Congratulations to Evalyn, Parker and Isaac!!!! Have a great State Tournament!!!!)