The Shadow
HARRISONBURG – Eric Barbour made a little history at James Madison University Saturday.
Barbour became the first Alleghany swimmer in the brief two-year history of the program to qualify for the state meet with a sixth place finish in the 100 meter breaststorke.
“We had an awesome day,” said AHS coach Lee Anne Bowling-Angle. “Every swimmer had a personal best time or a season best time.”
Barbour’s time in the 100 breast was 1:12.13, two seconds faster than his previous personal best.
“He also had a goal of going sub 25 seconds in the 50 free and he met that goal with a 24.99,” added Bowling-Angle.
“It really all came together for Eric in this meet,” she added. “Knowing he had to beat a swimmer in the previous heat to qualify, he dug deep the last 25 yards and pulled it out. He has been very dedicated and put in the hard work necessary to reach the state level. He truly deserves it and has earned the moment.”
Other Mountaineer highlights included Devin Nicely and Zack Dressler’s personal best times in the 100 back, Carriagan Wright’s season best in both of her events and Kendall Persinger’s personal best in the 50 free leadoff leg of the 200 free relay.
The men’s 200 free relay placed eighth, led by a personal best leg from Mark Hendricks.
The Group AA state event will be held at the Christiansburg Aquatic Center on Friday and Saturday.
