Yosemite Marlins Swim Club Made Waves at Hawaii Senior Invite
Strong Performances Against Elite Competition
Yosemite Marlins Swim Club Made Waves at Hawaii Senior Invite
A small but determined group of young swimmers from the local area are gaining attention after an impressive showing in Hawaii. The Yosemite Marlins Swim Club continues to grow and provide competitive opportunities for athletes from our mountain communities, highlighted by a standout performance at the Kona Hawaii Senior Invite held March 18–21, 2026.
Founded in December 2013, the year-round, USA Swimming–sanctioned team has steadily advanced its mission to develop competitive swimmers, promote aquatics as a lifelong sport, and expand athletic opportunities. Thanks to the generosity of Yosemite High School’s use of their pool, the club can serve athletes of all ages and skill levels with structured, age-specific training designed to challenge each swimmer individually.
That approach paid off in Kona, where four Marlins—among the youngest competitors at the meet—went head-to-head with swimmers from across the United States, most of whom were 16 or older.
Strong Performances Against Elite Competition
Leading the charge was Kaydance (15), who achieved a sectional cut in the 100 freestyle with a time of 53.90. She also posted multiple personal records (PRs), including the 1000 freestyle (10:43.13), 200 backstroke (2:14.54), 50 backstroke (28.32), 500 freestyle (5:13.48), and 50 freestyle (25.13).
Millie (14) delivered an impressive slate of PRs as well, dropping time in the 100 freestyle (1:01.28), 50 butterfly (29.16), 100 butterfly (1:06.70), and 50 freestyle (27.39).
Blaze (14) added personal bests in the 50 freestyle (26.00), 50 butterfly (32.88), and 100 individual medley (1:15.74).
Jaxson (14) rounded out the group with a series of distance and IM improvements, including PRs in the 200 butterfly (2:29.19), 1000 freestyle (11:38.84), 100 IM (1:09.06), 200 freestyle (2:05.33), and 100 butterfly (1:05.00) while also completing the grueling 1650 freestyle in 19:38.85.
The quartet also teamed up in the 200 mixed freestyle relay, clocking a personal best 1:44.99.
Beyond competition, the trip was also an opportunity for the swimmers to bond and experience Hawaiian culture. Between events, they explored local beaches, tried traditional foods, and connected with athletes from around the nation.
Building Opportunity in Mountain Communities
The Marlins’ showing in Hawaii underscores the club’s broader impact. By providing high-level coaching and competition exposure, the program helps young athletes from our mountain areas reach stages typically dominated by larger teams.
Beyond club swimming, the Yosemite Marlins also offer adult lap swimming sessions year-round, along with seasonal aqua fitness classes, swim lessons, and a recreational competitive swimming program during the summer months, further reinforcing their commitment to our community wellness and water safety.
If you would like more information on the programs the Yosemite Marlins have to offer, please contact the head coach, Tammy Kudela at tmkudela@gmail.com or call 559-213-3304.
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