The Aquianas attended the U.S. 13-15 National Championship and 12 & under Invitational in Irvine, California April 28-May 1. The Aquianas earned representation on the podium in every single routine event, placing third in the Team and Free Combination events in the 13-15 age category. Sophia Shen earned a silver medal in the 13-15 Solo event and teammates Carina Carpi and Cora Huang placed fifth and 16th respectively out of a field of 53 solos. The 13-15 Duet of Viola Li and Isabella Sarracino won the bronze medal while Shen and Grace Kim finished ninth out of 44 duets. Gwen Thomas placed ninth in the 12 & under Solo as well as Alexandra Lanning and Dylan Thomas finishing ninth out of 20 in the 12 & under Duet.

Laura Mase, Aquianas 13-15 Assistant Coach, shared, “Nationals is one of the biggest meets of our entire season and the amount of pressure and anticipation that comes with it is immense. These swimmers trained extremely hard and despite facing many unexpected challenges, came together and produced some of the best results that we have ever seen at this meet. I am beyond proud of these athletes and know we will continue to see great things from each and every one of them!”

Shen and Li were two of 12 swimmers to earn a spot on the 13-15 National Team to compete at the 2022 World Youth Championship this summer. Thus far, Li has earned three appointments to the National Team in 2018, 2019, and 2022. Shen has one more year in the 13-15 age category and continues to be a strong contender in earning a spot on the National Team in the future.

Jen Muzyk, Director of Artistic Swimming and Aquianas Head Coach, commented, “Earning these placements speaks to the athleticism, passion, and dedication of these swimmers. I am so proud of how far both Sophia and Viola have come, as they continue tradition of representing both the Aquianas and the United States on the National Team year after year. I can’t wait to see them both compete this summer!”

Artistic Swimming, formerly known as Synchronized Swimming, is a rewarding athletic experience for girls and boys ages six and older. The sport combines swimming and dance, fostering teamwork, confidence, healthy lifestyles, and time management for those who participate. The New Canaan YMCA Aquianas Artistic Swimming program is a nationally ranked program with athletes who range from recreational participation to those who compete collegiately, nationally, and internationally.

The Aquianas Artistic Swimming team will be hosting a camp this summer for boys and girls ages six to 12. The summer camp program is offered in two-week sessions from June 20-August 12. Registration is available for members and non-members at the Y’s Front Desk or online at www.newcanaanymca.org/registration.

For additional information about the Aquianas Artistic Swimming program and upcoming summer camp, contact Jen Muzyk, Director of Artistic Swimming and Head Coach, at [email protected].