NST Shines at Albany Meet

The Newport Swim Team (NST) showcased impressive talent and determination at the AAA May Long Course Invitational in Albany, held from May 3 to May 5. This meeting marked the opening of their long course season, featuring a 50-meter pool that is an actual test of endurance and skill. A total of 15 Oregon teams participated, with NST contributing 12 swimmers to the fierce competition. Despite a smaller contingent of just four boys, the male swimmers from Newport secured a commendable 9th place overall. The standout performances came from 18-year-olds Sam Postlewait and Jack Sappington, who collectively clinched five events. Additionally, 11-year-old Jay Eibner and 15-year-old Clyde Bretz significantly contributed by securing top 5 finishes, boosting the boys’ team score.

The girls’ team outperformed the boys by securing 6th place, just behind Beaverton Area Aquatics from Portland. The young talents, 14-year-old Gwynn Postlewait and 10-year-old Zoey Chappell dominated their age groups, winning four events each. Furthermore, 18-year-old Layla Bretz added two victories to the team’s tally, while 12-year-old Ashlyn Conrad achieved personal best in all three races.

Overall, NST swimmers registered 32 personal best times and achieved 32 top-5 finishes throughout the meet. Zoey Chappell notably set four new qualifying (A) times for the upcoming long course state championships. Her teammates also excelled, achieving nine B qualifying times over the weekend. The full roster of NST competitors included Clyde & Layla Bretz, Zoey Chappell, Skyla Chen, Ashlyn Conrad, Jay Eibner, Pia Lihou, Hana Parker, Ruby Perucci, Gwynn & Sam Postlewait, and Jack Sappington.

With such a solid start to the season, NST eagerly looks forward to their next competition, the Comfort Suites CAT Long Course Open in Corvallis, slated for May 17-19. With the momentum from this meet, NST swimmers are poised to deliver more exceptional performances.