News Summary

The 2025 OHSAA and KHSAA state championships in Canton and Lexington highlighted the incredible skill of high school swimmers and divers. With thrilling performances, standout moments included record-breaking swims and impressive relay finishes. Athletes from Ohio and Kentucky battled fiercely, showcasing determination and sportsmanship. As the competition wrapped up, the weekend left a lasting impact and excitement for the future of swimming and diving in the region.

Excitement Soars at Ohio and Kentucky High School Swimming and Diving Meets

Canton and Lexington played host to an exhilarating weekend as high school swimmers and divers showcased their incredible talents at the 2025 OHSAA and KHSAA state championships. With the competition heating up, athletes from both states competed fiercely in a series of thrilling events.

Friday’s Fabulous Finish

Things kicked off on Friday with the highly anticipated Division II finals in Ohio, while Kentucky’s girls’ swimming and diving events took to the stage. The energy was palpable, and the competitors did not disappoint. Over at C.T. Branin Natatorium in Canton, the excitement of the crowd filled the air as swimmers dashed through the water and divers took to the boards.

One of the standout performances came from the Ross High School 400-yard freestyle relay team. The quartet, consisting of Cooper Burt, Luke Mignery, Timmy Pfirrman, and Connor Bennett, clinched the gold medal with an impressive time of 3:07.24, surpassing their preliminary heat time. Hot on their heels was the Indian Hill team, finishing with a commendable time of 3:08.43.

Record Breaking Moments

As the excitement continued, Ohio swimmer Cooper Burt made waves by setting a new Division II state record in the 100 backstroke, finishing in a swift 48.28 seconds. Not too far behind him, Connor Bennett also made headlines by taking home the gold medal in the 100-yard breaststroke with a time of 55.61 seconds. The night was just getting started, as both bloomed into competitors with multiple wins.

On the Kentucky side, the action intensified with stellar performances in the girls’ events. Julia Shafer of Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy made a splash by winning the girls’ 100 freestyle in 50.77 seconds. This core achievement marked her second individual win of the meet, showing that she is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with.

Saturday Showdown

As the sun rose on Saturday, anticipation filled the air for the Division I competitions in Ohio and boys’ events in Kentucky. The swimmers were ready for another round of action, and fans couldn’t wait to see who would rise to the occasion.

In addition to the relay and individual events, the Kentucky diving competition had its share of excitement as well. Although the event faced delays due to adverse weather conditions, the athletes were prepared to put on a show. Notable diver Savannah Bien from Notre Dame Academy finished strong, scoring 435.80, securing the third position overall.

Celebrating Standout Athletes

Among other remarkable achievements, Connor Bennett once again proved his prowess in the pool by winning the 200-yard individual medley with an astounding time of 1:49.32. As if that wasn’t enough, Cooper Burt added another gold medal to his collection, winning the 100-yard butterfly with a time of 47.72 seconds.

In yet more thrilling races, Indian Hill’s Jason Zhao claimed victory in the 200-yard freestyle with a speedy 1:35.42, while Taylor Bacher from Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy made history by securing her third consecutive win in the 200-yard freestyle with a solid time of 1:49.49.

A Show of Skill and Determination

Overall, the weekend was a phenomenal showcase of talent, determination, and sportsmanship among young athletes from Ohio and Kentucky. The events highlighted the passion for swimming and diving in the region, proving that the future is bright for these young swimmers.

As the weekend wraps up, everyone involved can take pride in their hard work and dedication that brought them to this moment. Ohio and Kentucky high school swimmers have certainly made waves, both literally and figuratively, leaving us all excited for what next year has in store!

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