Snowflake Open really digs new pool at Mesa State

January 23 and 24 marked the annual Snowflake Open. This youth swim event drew teams from Aspen, Durango, individuals from Denver, the Grand Valley wave, Dolphins of Grand Valley, Montrose, Sopris and several unattached swimmers.

Used to swimming at the Orchard Mesa swimming pool, coaches and visiting teams did a double take when they saw Mesa State's ELPOMAR NATATORIUM, the new ten 50 meter swimming pool which provides 25 or more lanes when lines are hooked up across the pool.

The only other pool of such caliber might be the Epic Pool in Fort Collins. Salt Lake City's University of Utah has a large pool, but not like Mesa State's.

This total of 195 swimmers used this opportunity to compete to enhance their future scores as they mature in the coming seasons. In fact, the Western Slope Championships follow this event in a month. State Championships take place tow months from now. Through the Snowflake meet, short course competition only helps swimmers get ready for these courses at championship meets.

In 1,200 some events, youngsters as young as six stretched out to grow. The bulk of ages ranged from 6 to 12. There were 13,14,15, and even a 17 year old athlete. With many high school students participating in school sports, younger swimmers have the opportunity to receive plenty of instruction and pool time. Swimming at Mesa's beautiful facility only adds icing on the cake.

Montrose Marlins took first place with 4,057, Grand Junction Dolphins placed second with 3,651 and Team Sopris garnered third place, sporting 3,541 points.