Excel Swimmer's Firsts at Mardi Gras Meet

First’s at Swim Meet

February 18, 2007…… At the 2007 Mardi Gras Swim Meet this past weekend there were three significant types of “FIRST’S” for Sumner County swimmers.

Brittany Zobl, a 13 year old from Hendersonville who trains with Excel Aquatics has achieved a significant milestone in her development into an elite swimmer in Sumner County. At this past weekend’s Mardi Gras Swim Meet in Brentwood, hosted by Excel Aquatics, Zobl turned in a USA Swimming Southern Sectional Senior Girl’s Qualifying Time of 1:01.99 in the 100 Yard Backstroke, her FIRST qualifying cut at that level of competition. “BZ is now eligible to participate in the Sectional Meet in Atlanta GA on March 10^th, going against girls ranging from her age all the way into college and beyond. She will be one of the youngest swimmers there.” Assistant Coach John Barnes noted.

In the 400 Yard Individual Medley, Zobl and Hannah Ray swam the event for their FIRST time, with event veteran Caroline McCrory volunteering to join them in the grueling event as morale support. “We were proud that those girls stepped up and swam that event. It is our belief as coaches that all swimmers need to learn to swim the “IM” events in order to develop themselves as well rounded swimmers, and the 400 IM is the pinnacle of that development.” Barnes commented.

The Cole sisters (Caroline and Kathryn) joined Peyton Smith in participating in their FIRST USA level swim meet, and all three turned in impressive times. “These girls, like everyone else, will see the fruits of their efforts in meets to come”.

Joining the above swimmers at the Mardi Gras meet were Jimmie Joe Boone, Schuyler Daniel, Alyson Gomer, Madison Kolbe, Katie Mize, Sarah Rittenberry, and Paige Scheriger.

For more information on year-round competitive swimming visit www.ExcelAquatics.org.