Pierre, SD – The 2023 SD-TIDE SC Winter Invite concluded with a splash, as young swimmers from the region displayed their prowess in the pool. The event, which brought together some of the most promising aquatic athletes, was a testament to the dedication and skill of these young competitors.
In the Girls 8 & Under category, the meet saw an impressive performance by Gianna Giovanetti. She secured a second-place finish in the 25 breaststroke (SDQ), a third-place in both the 50 back (SDQ) and 50 breaststroke, a fifth-place in the 50 free, sixth in the 25 back, eighth in the 100 free, and eighteenth in the 25 free.
The Boys 8 & Under Division was highlighted by two remarkable swimmers. Bentley Frost dominated the field with first-place finishes in the 25 back, 100 free, and 200 IM, along with second-place in the 50 free, 200 free, 25 breaststroke, 25 fly, 50 fly, and 100 IM, all with State Qualifying times. His efforts earned him the Second Place High Point Winner title. JJ Umiker also made waves with a second-place in the 50 back (SDQ), 100 back (SDQ), 50 breaststroke (SDQ), and 100 free (SDQ), a third-place in the 50 fly, 100 IM (SDQ), and 200 free (SDQ), fourth in the 25 breaststroke (SDQ) and 25 fly (SDQ), and fifth in the 50 free (SDQ), securing the Third Place High Point Winner spot.
In the Boys 9-10 Division, Callan Ekle and Gannon Northrup represented their age group with determination. Ekle finished 13th in the 100 breaststroke, 14th in the 100 IM and 50 free (SDQ), and 17th in the 50 back (SDQ). Northrup achieved 12th in the 100 back, 13th in the 200 free, 14th in the 50 back (SDQ), 15th in the 50 breaststroke, and 17th in both the 50 free and 100 free.
Relays
8 & Under 200 Medley Relay (Gianna/JJ/Bentley/Gannon)-6th
8 & Under 200 Free Relay (Bentley/Gannon/JJ/Callan)-6th
The 2023 SD-TIDE SC Winter Invite not only showcased the competitive spirit of these young swimmers but also set the stage for their future successes in the sport. We congratulate all participants for their outstanding achievements and look forward to their continued growth and excellence in swimming.
The recent state swimming championships saw a remarkable performance from our local swim team, with athletes achieving impressive results across various age divisions.
In the Girls 11-12 Division, Grace Hutton showcased her talent with a series of strong finishes, including second place in both the 200 free and 200 back, and third in the 100 back. Her consistent performance earned her State Qualifying Times (SDQ) in multiple events.
The Girls 13-14 Division was represented by Sydney Carlson and Ann Tjeerdsma, who demonstrated their competitive spirit. Carlson secured a top-ten finish in the 200 breaststroke, while Tjeerdsma achieved fourth in the 200 back and fifth in the 100 back, among other SDQs.
Sorrine Ekle and Charlie Hull led the Girls 15-16 Division with Ekle taking fifth in the 200 free and Hull earning third in both the 50 free and 200 free, all with SDQs.
The Boys 11-12 Division saw Finley Ellwein dominate with a first-place finish in the 100 back and multiple second-place finishes, all with State Qualifying Times. Matthew Maritz also made a splash, securing second in the 200 breaststroke and third in the 200 free, contributing to his third-place High Point Winner title.
Caleb Hutton was the sole competitor in the Boys 13-14 Division, achieving second in the 1000 free and a series of sixth-place finishes, all with State Qualifying times.
In the Mens 15-16 Division, Bryce Bowman and Mason Ward-Zeller displayed exceptional skill, with Bowman placing fourth in the 400 IM and Ward-Zeller sweeping first in multiple events, breaking his own State Record in the 100 IM.
The mixed relay teams also had outstanding performances, with Team A taking first in the 200 free and Team B securing second. The 200 Medley Relay team finished sixth, showcasing the depth of talent within the team.
We congratulate all our swimmers for their dedication and hard work, which have clearly paid off in their remarkable achievements at the state championships.
