A trio of Whistler Seawolves swimmers came away from the Vancouver District Regional Championships in North Vancouver last weekend with an assortment of medals, ribbons and personal best times.
Samatha Ellis, 12, a three-year veteran of the B.C. Summer Swimming Series, made the most of the fact she was competing in a higher age group this year, and came within a second of qualifying for the provincial championships in the back stroke and individual medley. She will be the region’s first alternate in both disciplines, and posted personal best times in both events.
Jessica Ellis, Samatha’s older sister, competed in the senior divisions and competed in every event. She earned three silver medals and one bronze, qualifying for the provincial championships in Victoria this weekend.
Although she is a newcomer to competitive swimming, Jessica is a coach for both the Whistler Seawolves and Squamish Pirates.
Whistler’s youngest competitive swimmer, eight-year-old Kerry-Anne Hamilton, posted personal bests in all of her events, earning ribbons and medals, and qualified for the provincials in the back stroke, where she holds one of the fastest times in B.C.
Both Hamilton and Samantha Ellis have been competing with the Squamish Pirates in the summer series, travelling with the team to train or race almost every day.
The Seawolves train at Meadow Park Sport Centre from September until June, with programs for children and adults.
Coaches are needed for the upcoming session.
If you’re interested in swimming or coaching, contact Jon and Dorris Ellis at 604-932-0296.
