It was a superhero kind of Sunday this past weekend. No, we’re not talking about the triumphant Philadelphia Eagles. We’re talking about Tom Fritschen, Carl Haynie, Val Thompson, Dan Underbrink, and Tom Walker swimming two meets in two countries on the same day!
That’s right. TWIM sported the Dynamic Duo (Val and Dan) in Anacortes, Washington while at the same time fronting the Three Musketeers (Tom, Carl, COB) in Victoria, British Columbia. It was a tough decision for the latter not to go to Anacortes this year, but our Team Walker INTERNATIONAL Masters contract dictates we compete in at least one such meet every year. If we don’t, our million dollar donors and sponsors get grumpy 😉
The meet directors put on wonderful meets at both venues. While Val and Dan enjoyed the hospitality and comradery at the Fidalgo pool, Father Tom, Carl, and COB Tom were treated to the friendly hosts at Saanich Commonwealth Place further north.
Father Tom Fritschen
FT had a splendid meet in Victoria. After a strong 200m back, Tom secured a personal best time (32.83) and the Bronze in the 50m free. He then took nearly 3 seconds off his best 100m back time to land a Silver! Are you seeing the pattern, yet? Yes, he found Gold while finishing up with the 50m back and a 41.01 clocking. FT put on a good show as usual. Way to go, Father Tom!
Carl Haynie
Carl swam four events in Victoria. Like Tom, he began with the 200m back. COB Tom was heard saying afterwards “you led like by a full length going into the last 50”. So, I guess he did well! Carl was thrilled to get best times in his 50 Free (28.11) and 50 Breast (34.97). He came away with 4 wins in his age group including a first place finish overall (200 back).
Valerie Thompson
The Anacortes meet is a fun and treasured Short Course Meters meet every year. This year Val swam the 400 Free, the 200 Free, and the 100 IM. In the 400, she beat her seed time by an amazing 27 seconds(!!) landing her the Gold in her age group. After a second gold in the 200 Free, she stormed to a triumphant first place finish in the 100 IM beating her seed time by 3 seconds. Fantastic swimming, Val!
Dan Underbrink
Dan “The Man” Underbrink swam an astonishing 6 events in Anacortes covering over 1000 yards of racing in one short day. What an animal. His accomplishments are probably too numerous to mention. Let’s just say he finished First in his AG in all 6 (!!), namely the 400 IM, 100 back, 200 breast, (inhale) 200 back, 50 breast, (inhale) and 100 breast! This guy is on fire!
Tom Walker
Last but not least, our fearless leader – Thomas W. Walker the First – had an exceptional meet in Victoria. He beat his seed times in all 4 events by wide margins hitting times he hasn’t seen in 2 or 3 years. Tom was perhaps most happy with reaching two goals on Sunday: once again conquering the Long Course 200 Breast and the Long Course 200 IM – both 1st place finishes in his AG, by the way. Way to go, COB!
One thought on “The Fantastic Five”
Great job, you guys!!