Last weekend, April 17-19, the Pagosa Lakes Porpoises competed at the Jolean Scott Memorial Swim Meet in Durango.
The team continued its upward trajectory, delivering another strong performance marked by major time drops, competitive swims and standout relay finishes.
Our girls’ 200‑yard medley relay team placed second out of 12 teams, finishing just two seconds behind the winners. The relay was made up of Asia Gorman, Quinn Mitchell, Savannah Graves and Emmary Brewer.
The girls’ 200‑yard freestyle relay team also had an impressive showing, earning third place out of 14 teams with a lineup of Brewer, Graves, Kimberly Taylor and Ruby Snell.
These relay results reflect the depth and teamwork the Porpoises have been developing all season.
Individually, several swimmers demonstrated the progress they’ve been building over months of training.
Brewer continued her strong season with a third‑place finish in the 200‑yard freestyle (14 swimmers), fourth in the 100‑yard freestyle (28 swimmers) and sixth in the 50‑yard breaststroke (14 swimmers).
J.J. White also added to his season accomplishments, placing fourth in both the 100‑yard breaststroke (nine swimmers) and the 50‑yard freestyle (10 swimmers).
While it’s not possible to highlight every swimmer by name, the entire team deserves recognition. The Porpoises have shown steady improvement throughout the season — stronger technique, faster times and a growing competitive spirit that shows up at every practice and every meet. Their dedication, consistency and support for one another are the foundation of the success we’re seeing now.
As fortunate as we are to have a safe place to swim, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges this team overcomes. Unlike many programs they compete against, the Porpoises do not have access to a full competitive facility. With 53 swimmers, four lap lanes and only two dive blocks that differ from what athletes see at other venues, the team makes the absolute most of what they have. They show up without complaint, adapt to every limitation and train with a level of grit and positivity that speaks volumes about their character.
The season is far from over, and the Porpoises continue to build momentum with each meet.
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