The Montezuma-Cortez Lady Panthers wrapped up their 2015-2016 season last week at the Colorado state swim and dive championships.
The Panthers qualified for three events and competed at Veterans Memorial Aquatic Center in Thornton on Friday.
Junior Sam Bagge qualified in both the 50 yard freestyle and 100 yard freestyle by placing third and fourth respectively at the regional meet.
At state, Bagge finished 23rd in the 50 yard freestyle (26.15) and 33rd in the 100 yard freestyle (58.41).
“She didn’t beat her best time,” said head coach Gayle Earley. “But she swam well.”
Earley also noted that Bagge is still a junior, so she has big plans for next year in her senior season.
“Her goal for next year is to make finals at state,” said Earley.
Bagge also competed in M-CHS’ only other event, the 200 yard freestyle relay.
Joining her were Jenna Barner, Shundiin Kauffman and Kayla Hageman, and together they finished 30th (1:50.79).
But after coming down with illness, Earley was very pleased with how they performed.
“Considering that they were unhealthy - they all got respiratory colds - they swam okay,” she explained. “The poor things were so sick, but they did well and almost hit the time they were aiming for.”
Earley said that the team finished the season strong – and after qualifying swimmers to state for the second consecutive year – the Lady Panthers will look to keep the streak alive next season.
