By RYAN ARENA
L’Observateur

Belle Terre got its first taste of victory in 2009 Monday as the Piranhas took down visiting Sun Villa 324.5-206.5 in LaPlace.

“The kids are stoked,” said Belle Terre coach Amanda Buchanon. “They showed a lot of emotion. Everyone was happy, and it was good to see their work pay off for them.”

Cari Jane Roussel, James Krawczyk and Alexis Bailey highlighted Belle Terre’s efforts, leading the way with

three first place finishes each.

The Piranhas (1-3) took a 66.5-41.5 lead after the opening freestyle event. From there, Belle Terre gradually improved its lead through each individual event and held a 219.5-171.5 lead entering the relays.

The Sharks were still within striking distance, but Belle Terre dominated the relays, winning 15 of the 20 total relay races.

“It was definitely a great feeling to know that our relay teams could get the job done in that situation,” said Buchanon. “The kids did a really good job.”

Justin Jase, Tyra Watkins, Sean Doody, and Riley LeBlanc were each two-time first place winners for the Piranhas.

Colby Watkins, Tiara Williams, Morgan Gunnels, Seth Gunnels, Rhett LeBlanc, Giselle Jase, Parrish Masters, Ansley St. Pierre, and Brittany McMurray rounded out the first place winners for Belle Terre.

Buchanon said that she was pleased with the way her team handled success.

“I was very happy with their attitude,“ said Buchanon.

“They were excited, but not overzealous. They were proud of the job they did, but at the same time they know how it is to be on the other side of things.”