TOP SWIMMERS AND DIVERS TO WATCH
Taylor Ault, Sonora: She’s back. After focusing last season on preparing for the U.S. Olympic Trials, the Florida-bound senior could make up for lost time. She clocked a 4:41.88 in the 500-yard free in December. Watch out Division 2.
Elise Garcia, Crean Lutheran: The junior remains one of the county’s top sprinters. She is capable of breaking 23 seconds in the 50 free and 49 seconds in the 100 free. Be ready for a quick 200 IM.
Cami Hidalgo, Capistrano Valley: The Georgia Tech-bound senior diver is aiming to become the first county female to capture four consecutive Southern Section diving titles. If she pulls off the feat, all four will be in Division 1.
Eva Merrell, Crean Lutheran: The junior hasn’t slowed down since a breakout performance at the U.S. Olympic Swim Trials. She has already posted a 51.93 in the 100-yard butterfly. She has also been under the county record in the 50 (22.26) and 100 free (48.51).
Samantha Shelton, Santa Margarita: The Register’s reigning swimmer of the year is emerging in 500 free. In December, she posted a 4:45.26, which would have won Division 1 last season.
Contact the writer: dalbano@scng.com
