Monterey Park, Calif. – The Mt. SAC Women's Swim and Dive Team delivered a powerful finish to the South Coast Conference Championships, combining clutch swims, record-breaking performances, and undeniable depth to clinch the SCC Championship Title. The Mounties totaled 976 points behind 16 first-place finishes, six second-place finishes, and eight third-place showings. Long Beach City followed in second with a score of 818, while El Camino took third with 403.
The day began with a gritty effort in the 1650 Freestyle, where Megan Venegas powered to a second-place finish in 18:49.54. Teammates Viviana Gil (8th, 21:20.49), Hermione Felix (9th, 21:45.00), and Paulina Dorrego (10th, 21:51.09 ) added crucial points in a tough field. Spencer Damaske struck gold in the 100 IM (1:00.02), while Genevieve Niko joined her on the podium in third (1:03.61).
One of the meet's highlight moments came courtesy of Paige Fast, who broke the SCC record in the 200 Backstroke with an incredible time of 2:05.88. Ella Rosenthal backed her up with a fourth-place finish (2:25.28). The momentum continued in the 100 Freestyle, where the Mounties flexed their sprint power. Carolyn Kao claimed first in 52.36, followed by Niko in second (53.83), Eden Buell in fourth (55.97), and Rachel Donahue in seventh (59.20), nearly sweeping the final.
In the 200 Breaststroke, Eden Kennedy (2:37.35) and Sarah Tolmasoff (2:42.58) contributed to the medal haul with strong third and sixth-place finishes. Elleanna Ramos added another spark to the team's performance by winning the 200 Butterfly in a new SCC record time of 2:06.04, with Jenna Barajas placing fourth (2:47.74).
The meet concluded on a high note as Ramos, Damaske, Niko, and Kao dominated the 400 Freestyle Relay, taking the win in 3:34.11. Their final-day performance showcased the team's depth, versatility, and competitive edge, firmly establishing Mt. SAC as a conference powerhouse.
Their exceptional performances were recognized by the South Coast Conference with multiple postseason honors. Paige Fast was named Swimmer of the Year, Lily Burson earned Diver of the Year, Rob McClellan was honored as Women's Diving Coach of the Year, and Chris Jackson was named Women's Swimming Coach of the Year.
NEXT UP:
The Mounties now set their sights on the 3C2A Swimming and Diving Championships, taking place May 1–3 at Santa Rosa Junior College. After a top-six finish last year, the team is poised to make an even stronger run this time around. Good luck, ladies!
STAY CONNECTED:
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For additional information, please contact the Mt. SAC Sports Information Office at 909.274.4630.