Three New Canaan YMCA Aquianas athletes recently achieved the distinction of being chosen for the 2015-2016 US National team for Synchronized Swimming. Only 12 swimmers are selected nationwide for each age group team. Emma Tchakmakjian and Katherine Connolly made the National Team in the 13-15 Age Group, while Olivia Li was selected to the 12 / Under Age Group.
The three swimmers will train this summer and represent the USA as they travel and compete at international events such as the Pan American Championships. The National Team selections were announced at the conclusion of the 2015 US National Synchronized Swimming Championships, held 31 March through 4 April in Moraga, CA. Two New Canaan YMCA squads competed at the Moraga meet, which brings together top high school and college teams from across the country. The Aquianas’ 13-15 Age Group team achieved 6th place in the team routine and 3rd place in the combo routine, and the Junior team earned 5th place in their team routine and 3rd in the combo slot.
The Aquianas also had strong performances in the solo and duet portions of the meet, with Tchakmakjian’s solo earning 7th place and Connolly’s earning 8th. Soloist Rene Collett swam to 8th place in the Senior division. In the 13-15 duet competition, Connolly and partner Katie Chidley placed 6th, and Tchakmakjian and partner Audrey Millar came in at 13th. “To see our swimmers make it to the top of their sport at the national level is very gratifying, and a testament to the hard work of the girls and the entire coaching staff”, said Head Coach Jen Muzyk.
Photo caption: The 13-15 combo team celebrates its bronze medal at the US National Championships. Back row, from L to R: Maddie Sturcke, Audrey Millar, Olivia Buckley, Eliza Wetmore, Audrey Bourque, Katherine Reiter, and Sophie Price. Front row, from L to R: Nicole Vanderlee, Rachel Panzano, Katie Chidley, Katherine Connolly (US National Team member) and Emma Tchakmakjian (US National Team member).