By Robert Haugh

Two dozen swimmers from Santa Clara Aquamaids competed in the Junior Olympic Championship in Colorado Springs, CO, from June 26 to July 3.

They brought back to the Mission City eight gold, two silver and four bronze medals. That was more than any other team. Kudos the athletes, their parents and coaches.

The Aquamaids enter two teams, one combo, two duet and a solo. The athletes competed in the 11-12, 13-15 and 16-17 age groups.

“We have had a challenging year trying to train in a pandemic and starting our routines in April, Coach Heather Carrasco said. “Not only have we lost pools for training and adaptive, but we have made numerous changes to athletes and choreography in teams and combos.”

Whatever they did. It worked. 

Aquamaids Ayla Barry, Brianna Holmes and Rachel Holmes won gold medals in every event they entered. Wow.

Santa Clara Aquamaids have a well-deserved reputation for producing world-class synchronized swimmers and Olympic athletes since 1964. 

For more information about them and the lessons they provide, here’s their website.