Sandpoint Sharks start short course season strong

SPOKANE — The Sandpoint Sharks kicked off their short course season at the SWAT Fall Challenge, held October 10–11 at Whitworth University in Spokane. The weekend brought exciting races, new personal bests and valuable experience for a growing team of young swimmers.

For many Sharks, this was an opportunity to compete in a new environment, gain confidence on the starting blocks, and put their hard work in practice to the test. The team saw plenty of progress, particularly from its younger swimmers, who continue to develop their racing skills and learn from each competition.

Zoey Travnicek had a great meet, dropping time in all her events and taking feedback from the first day to make improvements the following day. Presley Ukich showed strong racing skills, winning her heats on Sunday morning. Carter Hutchens demonstrated impressive progress with his starts and dives off the blocks, learning quickly despite not having starting blocks available at the Sharks’ home pool.

Nolan Jacobson raced with determination and recorded multiple time drops, while Penelope Gall returned to competition following a foot injury, showing she was ready to get back in the pool and race again.

The official meet results also highlighted strong efforts across the team. Zoey Travnicek finished the 100-yard individual medley in 1:29.92, while Presley Ukich posted a time of 1:43.63 in the same event. Carter Hutchens recorded a 45.41 in the 50-yard breaststroke, and Nolan Jacobson competed in several events, including the 100-yard individual medley and 100-yard breaststroke. Penelope Gall placed 20th in the girls’ 13–14 100-yard breaststroke with a time of 1:34.27.

Beyond the times and finishes, the meet offered an important chance for swimmers to practice race-day routines, become more comfortable competing and learn how to make adjustments from one race to the next. Each meet provides an opportunity to build confidence, develop technique and continue improving.

Head Coach Emily Renzini said she is excited about the team’s growth and the progress being made by the younger swimmers. With new racers joining the team and returning swimmers continuing to get faster, the Sharks are building a strong foundation for the season ahead.

The Sandpoint Sharks are proud of the effort, sportsmanship and determination shown throughout the weekend. The short course season is just getting started, and the team looks forward to building on this momentum at upcoming meets.