BCHS Swimming Dominates 2023 City Tourney with Record-breaking Performances

December 18, 2023

 

In a remarkable showcase of aquatic prowess, Bishop Chatard High School’s swim team left an indelible mark at the 2023 City Tournament, clinching victories in both the boys’ and girls’ categories. The standout performance of the day belonged to Jack Steadham, who shattered not just city records but also school records.

Steadham’s name echoed through the annals of swimming history as he obliterated the longstanding 1983 record in the 100 Fly, clocking in at a breathtaking 54.04 seconds. Not content with that, he rewrote his own 2021 record in the 100 Back, posting a time of 55.09 seconds. These remarkable achievements firmly cemented Steadham’s legacy in the school’s swimming lore, as he also surpassed the 2018 100 Fly record.

Steadham wasn’t the only record-breaker that day. Katie Countryman emerged as a force to be reckoned with, seizing the spotlight by smashing the 2016 200 Freestyle Girls’ Record with a time of 1:58.58. Her prowess in the pool added to the tally of records falling in the wake of Bishop Chatard’s performance.

Adding to the accomplishments were collective efforts, notably the girls’ team (Margueritte Bourgeois, Hanna Ross, Gabby Herner, Katie Countryman) 200 Free Relay’s achievement. They shattered the school record from 2017 with a phenomenal time of 1:46.03, setting a new benchmark for future endeavors.

Beyond the record-breaking feats, there were a plethora of stellar performances. Hanna Ross showcased her skills in the 100 Backstroke with a personal best time of 1:03.30. Alex Paz demonstrated sheer speed, claiming the 50 Free title with an impressive time of 23.93 seconds.

Margueritte Bourgeois and Alex Teed secured commendable positions, finishing 2nd and 3rd in the 100 Breaststroke, respectively. Gabby Herner and Elaine Dilts showcased remarkable stamina, securing 2nd and 3rd spots in the grueling 500 Freestyle. Dilts, in particular, continued her commendable streak by slashing her time to 6:24.94 in the 500 Free.

Noteworthy performances continued, with Adison Fleming achieving a significant milestone by breaking the 30-second barrier in the 50 Free with a time of 29.75 seconds.

Importantly, team spirit reverberated through the stands, thanks to the unwavering support from teammates like Morgan Engelman and Zoe Williamson, who exemplified true sportsmanship by rallying behind their peers.

Bishop Chatard’s triumph wasn’t merely in securing victories and breaking records, but in the camaraderie and unwavering support displayed by the entire team. Their legacy at the 2023 City Tourney will undoubtedly endure as a testament to their skill, determination, and collective spirit.