Don Eisinger News Today

A member of a local YMCA swim team competed at the National YMCA Short Course Swimming Championships last week, marking the first time Jefferson Citys team has sent a swimmer to the championship.

The young swimmers climbed up on the platform as one, hands gripping the edge, feet poised to spring. As the loud chime issued from the speakers, the swimmers leapt forward, diving into the water. The Knowles Indoor Pool area, packed to bursting, erupted in cheers as parents, siblings, friends and teammates watched the Barracudas jump into the pool. The race was on.