By Jessie Drogemuller, Swimming World College Intern
With only four days left until conference, the psych sheet for the Appalachian Swimming Conference has been released. While it is entirely possible that the line-ups for these events will all not stay the same, based off of the ASC psych sheet I have compiled a list of the five most exciting events for the weekend.
1. ND College Dynasty in Women’s 200 Medley Relay
Over the last three years, Notre Dame College’s women have won the 200 medley relay. As this relay opens up the finals session on the first day, it tends to have a building effect on the winning team. Last year NDC’s team set the meet record with 1:37.78. However, seeing that two of the members of that team graduated last year it will be interesting to see if they can hold onto the title.
2. Jesuit Pair Raring for Men’s 200 IM
Also on day one, the men’s 200 IM promises to have people up and cheering. Wheeling Jesuit University’s pair of Jakub Skrzypczak and Jakub Swierczynski already have their division II B cuts, but are just off from their qualifying times. In fact, with the top eleven spots under the 2:00 mark, this race guarantees excitement.
3. Fast and Furious 50 Free
Immediately following the 200 IM, the 50 freestyle, both men and women, may go by quickly but in a way that encourages others to get out and race. In fact, these swimmers will be in and out of the water so fast that if you are not paying attention you will surely miss it. Several swimmers on both sides already have either their ‘B’ cuts or their qualifying times with the potential to move up on that scale.
4. Defending Men’s 100 Fly
On day two, the men’s 100 butterfly should thrill teammates and fans alike. Current meet record holder, Kim Helander from Urbana will be looking to hold onto his title once again. Although he will have some tough competition as several younger swimmers have the chance to take his spot on the podium.
5. Hayward to repeat in mile?
Finals of the last day of competition open up with the top eight of the mile. While a majority of the heats will be swum between sessions, a lucky 16 men and women will get to race in primetime. Last year, Brenau University’s Courtney Hayward won this event as a freshman and she is placed in good standing to repeat that in her sophomore season. However, there are a few who could give her some healthy competition if she lets them.
This year’s conference is bound to be even better than last year, so long as there are no snow delays (knock on wood). Although these are some of the more anticipated events, each and every swim will be exciting for one reason or another, it is all about perspective after all.