Boys’ swim list showcases local talent
The Imperial Valley League boys’ swim season came to a close in early May marking the end of an impressive streak of performances from a variety of athletes.
Yet, perhaps none was more impressive than that of Brawley Union High senior Ross Wilson.
During his final two years as a Wildcat, Wilson rewrote the Brawley High history books breaking and setting new times in the eight individual events.
As a junior, Wilson set new school records in the 100 backstroke, 50 freestyle, 100 freestyle and the 200 individual medley.
His senior year, Wilson continued to move through the records setting new times in the 200 freestyle, 500 freestyle, 100 breaststroke and 100 butterfly.
For his efforts, Wilson was named the All-Imperial Valley League Athlete of the Year.
In addition to breaking school records, Wilson also dominated the league’s sprint events earning All-IVL First Team honors in the 50 and 100 free events.
Wilson also participated in the three relay teams that also earned All-League recognition.
In the 200 medley relay, Wilson swam with Brandon Castro, Brandon Goddard and Alex Walker. For the 200 freestyle relay, Wilson, Walker, Goddard and Brian Murray teamed for the first-team honor, while Wilson, Goddard, Castro and Murray swam together for the 400 freestyle relay.
While the Wildcats dominated the All-League list, a handful of other swimmers stamped their names to the remaining individual events.
From Southwest High, Sergio Beltran snagged the 200 freestyle first-team spot the second consecutive honor for the Eagle swimmer.
Beltran also won the honors for the 100 backstroke event.
Similar to Beltran, Calipatria High’s Jacob Ritter earned repeat honors and won two events after leading in the 200 individual medley and the 100 breaststroke all season.
Rounding out the all-league events was Omar Girbau of Vincent Memorial High, who won two strenuous events including the 500 freestyle and the 100 butterfly.