By Kevin Cunningham
Sports Correspondent
Whitewater High School athletes will compete in five events at the WIAA Division 2 boys state swimming meet, which is scheduled Friday at the UW-Madison Natatorium.
That’s because of their performances at the sectional competitions Feb. 9.
Young Liang qualified for state in the 200-yard individual medley and 100-yard breaststroke, while Jack Mayer clinched his spot in the 50- and 100-yard freestyles.
Alongside Liang and Mayer in the 200-yard freestyle relay will be Michael Kuhl and Devin Bazeley.
The same four individuals made up the Whippets’ 200-yard medley relay team, which came up just short of qualifying for state.
Head coach Gina Foucault said the Whippets performed well last weekend.
“The team had several outstanding swims at sectionals,” Foucault said. “Michael Kuhl swam a best time in the leadoff 100 of his 200 freestyle race, while Devin Bazeley posted a lifetime best time in his 200 freestyle. Devin now holds the fourth-fastest time in the 200 freestyle all-time.”
Liang finished third in the 200 IM, posting a season-best time in qualifying for state.
“We had three swimmers compete in the 50 freestyle,” Foucault said. “Zach Tomomitsu and Jonathan Manriquez posted season-best times. Jack Mayer finished third overall and qualified for the state meet with his best time. Jovany Manriquez was the first to swim the 100 freestyle with a season-best time. Jack Mayer then raced to a best time and qualified for the state meet. Jack is now fourth all-time in the 100 freestyle.”
Numerous other swimmers improved their times at the sectional meet, including Antonio Aranda, Bazeley and Manriquez.
“A big thanks to Zach Tomomitsu for stepping up and taking on an additional swim at sectionals,” Foucault said, and Jovany Manriquez, Jonathan Manriquez, Antonio Aranda and Zach Tomomitsu finished out the day with a great time in the 400 freestyle relay.”
