LARAYO moves to 2-0, tops Riverlands

Published 11:45 pm Tuesday, June 12, 2012

By RYAN ARENA

L’Observateur

 

LAPLACE — Defending River Parish Swim League champion LARAYO began its season with a pair of meets against the two teams that tied for league runner-up a year ago.

But the Barracudas passed the early season test with flying colors, first toppling LaVacherie and most recently Riverlands, taking a 393.5-157.5 victory at home over the Stingrays.

“It was an important win,” said LARAYO swimming coach Michelle Jensen. “There’s a lot of camaraderie between the two teams, a lot of friendships, and it brings out the best in everyone. They’re one of the bigger teams in the league in terms of numbers, and our kids responded to the challenge.”

Emily Schexnayder led the way for LARAYO, nailing down a trio of first place finishes.

Two-time winners included Matthew Schexnayder, Riley Weber, Joshua Tamplain, Kelly Campbell, Luke Jackson and Meredith Keating.

Alex Schiff, Alyssa Hooge, Kaile Levatino, Evan Brady, Jordan Jensen, Alex East, Jayce Tamplain, Gavin Babish, Kelsie Williams, Will East, Taylor Soileau, Natalie Weinert, Paige Williams, Austin Matherne, Ben East and Kaitlyn Lowry each captured a first place finish for the Barracudas.

For Riverlands, Mia Oncale and Grace Richoux were each three-time winners.  

Jack Chapman, Anna Guidry, Jordan St. Pierre and Olivia Hijaz each won two events for the Stingrays.

Olivia St. Martin and Maddie Guidry rounded out the list of first place winners for Riverlands.

LARAYO edged Riverlands in the freestyle event, leading 60.5-47.5 at its conclusion. But the Barracudas opened up a big lead after the backstroke, scoring a spread of 79-29 to take a 139.5-76.5 lead.

The champions never looked back from there, capping the night with a strong performance in the free and medley relays.

The meet was delayed a short time due to weather, but the rain wouldn’t halt the teams from taking the pool ultimately.

“As long as there was no lightning, we definitely wanted to swim,” said Jensen. “Both coaches were happy we were able to get this one in.”