Evan Apuron swims the freestyle relay. Photo by Leanne Howell
The Miner Swimmers hosted Amphitheater and Tanque Verde High Schools on Thursday, Oct. 18, at the Mammoth Pool. The Miners finished ahead of Amphitheater, but were unable to win against a much larger Tanque Verde team. The Boys’ Scores were Tanque Verde 81, San Manuel 65, Amphitheater 14. The Girls’ Scores were Tanque Verde 113, San Manuel 68, Amphitheater 26.
The Miner Relays look very strong at the meet. The Miner Boys won both Freestyle Relays. The teams of Michael Primero-Predgo, Hunter Hill, Daniel Garcia, and Evan Apuron battled stroke for the stroke against Tanque Verde in both relays until Evan was able to pull ahead on the final leg. The Girls 200 Freestyle relay team of Darien Apuron, BaiLee Hill, Rianna Estrada, and Star Chavez also battled a tough Tanque Verde team to earn the win.
Bonnie Bridges competes in the freestyle relay. Photo by Leanne Howell
While the relay wins impressed the coaches, some outstanding individual swims showed that the Miners are ready for the upcoming Regional and State Championship Meets. Jayden Smith swam his fastest 500 Freestyle, with a time nearly 30 seconds faster than his previous best. Michael Primero-Predgo won the 100 Freestyle with a very fast swim. Darien Apuron won both the 100 Freestyle and the Backstroke with quick times against very good competition. Evan continued to show that he is one of the best in the State, winning the 200 Freestyle in a school record time of 1:54.95 and easily winning the Butterfly.
The Boys advanced to 9-3 and the Girls advanced to 8-5 on the season.
The Miners will compete at the Southern Arizona Regional Qualifier at the Oro Valley Aquatic Center on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 26-27. The meet will be the final opportunity to qualify for the State Championship Meet in November.
Alyssa Reikofski swims the 400 freestyle. Photo by Leanne Howell.