Mokihana Aquatics better times

Although no Mokihana Aquatics swimmer managed to crack the top five at the 26th annual Harry M. Mamizuka Manoa Invitational last weekend, most individuals garnered improvements in their event times.

Keyah-Leilani Agoot, who is heading off to Kamehameha Schools next year, took highest finishes for a Mokihana athlete.

The 14-year-old finished up ninth in the 100 breaststroke and ninth in the 400 individual medley.

“I actually introduced her to her new coaches at Kamehameha. She’s going to do really well up there,” Mokihana head coach Orlando Anaya said.

And 13-year-old Kesia Anaya grabbed a 10th place showing in the 400 individual medley and 16-year-old Matthew Ross earned an 11th place finish in the 200 backstroke. In addition, 16-year-old Meaghan Sims carded a 10th place finish in the 400 individual medley.

The two-day event was held at the Manoa Valley District Park.

Mokihana Aquatics held an unclassfied qualifier a few weeks ago which determined whether swimmers would head to the invitational.

Other Mokihana Aquatics team members who made the trip included 12-year-old Kaitlyn Jarry, whose top finishes were in the 100 and 200 freestyle; 15-year-old Kelsey Tanaka, who finished up in 13th place in the 100 breaststroke; 12-year-old Kelly Culliney, who improved in nearly all of her events; and 12-year-old Matthew Holzman, who garnered a 13th-place finish in the 50 breaststroke.

Up next is the Sakamoto qualifying meet on May 13-14 at Kaua‘i High School’s pool. The Sakamoto event is the last contest before the long course state championships.

Mokihana Aquatics is still undergoing free tryouts for its swim team. Contact Anaya at 821-0587 for more information.

• Duane Shimogawa Jr., sports editor, may be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 257) or kauaisports@kauaipubco.com.