The swim team recently had their ups and downs but during this weekend they showed a real fighting spirit. The Flyers competed on Oct. 29, against two teams – Illinois Technology Institute and Maryville University. The meet took place in a swimming pool well known to our swimmers at our own recreation center.
In the first event, the 200 medley relay, Lewis was represented by a total of six teams of four swimmers each. After this first race, the Flyers immediately took the lead, winning the first two places in both women’s and men’s rivalry.
After fast relay races, it was time for the long distance events. Three women, one from each team, took on the task of swimming a mile. Swimmer Kiersten Smith deserves recognition, as she was the only one who broke the 20-minute barrier, winning the event.
The men of long-distance swimming also showed their best side. Enzo Kihara, this year’s transfer, finished first and Isaac Rolfsen finished second.
The swimmers also achieved great results at the 200 yards freestyle, butterfly and backstroke, taking the first three places in the men’s competition in those events while the women’s team ranked quite high on the 50, 100 and 500 yard freestyle.
Jabari Ramsey had an outstanding performance going 56.77 on 100 yards breaststroke. I sat down with Ramsey to see how he felt about the big race this weekend.
“I feel very thankful and blessed to have performed so well for the team after a tough week of training,” said Ramsey. “Excited to keep this momentum moving forward into these next upcoming meets.”
The women’s team won 197 – 49 against Illinois Tech and 172 – 77 against Maryville, while the men’s team defeated Illinois Tech 178 – 77 and Maryville 182-43.
The atmosphere at the competition was favorable for good results. Everyone cheered and supported, which only brought the team closer together and will help them achieve success in the future.
The swim team approached this meet as a practice in order to be ready for the upcoming IUPUI House of Champions Invitational in Indianapolis that will take place from Nov. 17-19.
Photo Credit: Meghan Bandy
