Two isle swimmers in state gold

Tribune-Herald

At least one Big Island Interscholastic Federation swimming coach at the Hawaii High School Athletic Association swimming championships on Maui lamented about the lack of hotel availability.

Hilo’s Beth Tsuha and Hawaii Prep’s Anu Nihipali probably didn’t mind at all. The juniors both swam their best career times Saturday and won gold medals at Kihei Aquatic Center.

Nihipali dominated the 100-yard backstroke, capping a successful first year in high school swimming. The BIIF champion transferred from Kahuku last year and proceeded to set three BIIF records in her signature event before touching in 57.24 seconds Saturday.

Tsuha also claimed her first state title, winning the 200 freestyle in 1:54.42.

“She swam the race of her life,” Vikings coach Jon Hayashida said. “We had a strategy and she followed it. She was ahead at the turn and then brought it.”

Waiakea’s Madisyn Uekawa also swam her best career times in both of her races, but fell short in her bid for a third state gold in the 100 breaststroke. She finished runner-up to Iolani sophomore Aja Grande (1:05.33-1:05.48.).

Uekawa also took silver in the 100 freestyle. Tsuha was third.

“Madisyn was upset (about the breaststroke) but she swam her best time,” Warriors coach Bill Sakovich said. “What else can you ask for.”

The veteran coach noted that Waiakea had an early flight back to the Big Island today, adding, “It’s tough to find a room here.”

Senior Sean Domingo placed second in the 200 freestyle, helping Hawaii Prep finish sixth in the boys race. Kamehameha-Kapalama was first.

Kealakehe’s Cara Jernigan, Phoenix-Claudia Hauanio, Kelly Jernigan and Madison Hauanio took bronze in the girls 400 freestyle relay, and the Waveriders finished fifth. Punahou took the top prize.