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LAPLACE — Hot on the heels of an undefeated swim season, the LARAYO Barracudas are preparing to cool down for Christmas in July during this year’s River Parish Swim League Summer Invitational.

LaVacherie will host the Christmas-themed culmination of the summer league July 9-11. Prelims will take place on Friday and Saturday, followed by finals on Sunday. The weekend will begin with a parade introducing each team.

The Barracudas have prepared for the invitational over the course of five meets this summer against Hill Heights, LaVacherie, Riverlands, Sun Villa and St. James Parish Swim Club, new to the swim league this year.

LARAYO coach Michelle Jensen said the younger swimmers have captivated this year’s meets.

Top swimmers in the 8 and under division are Macy Gaubert, Ava Gaubert Molly Oubre, Maxston Curry and Jax Brister.

Adeline Michel, Greyson McGovern, Olivia Crowdus, Drew Arceneaux and Drei Stein are performing well in the 9/10 age group, and longtime standout Colden West is continuing to make strides for the 11/12 boys.

Breast and back stroke have been the strongest events this year, though LARAYO has also been successful with the butterfly and freestyle.

This weekend, swimmers ages 9 and up will compete in the free, back, breast, fly and individual medley. The 8 and under group will compete in free, back, breast and fly.