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| Kaitlyn O'Reilly all-state in three events (photo by Minnesota State High School League) |
The talented Tiger senior finished seventh in the 200 individual medley and eighth in the 100 backstroke at the Class AA state meet held Wednesday night at the University of Minnesota Aquatic Center.
In addition, she teamed up with Cora Ruzicka, Kirsten Kracke and Chelsea Gehrke to finish seventh in the 200 freestyle relay. The seventh place finish in the relay tied Farmington's best effort ever in a relay event at state.
The trio of top eight finishes ran O'Reilly's career all-state recognitions to nine over the past four seasons.
"Kaitlyn's accomplishments in the pool speak for themselves as she's the most decorated Lady Tiger in program history," coach Jen Marshall said.
"She's a leader in and out of the water and is always helping other swimmers with their strokes and turns. She plans to continue her swimming career in college and I'm excited to follow where life leads her."
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| The 2013 state team achieved the highest-ever finish (12th) by a Tiger team |
In addition to the three all-state performances, the Tigers scored points in two other events at state. Kracke ranked 14th in the 50 freestyle while the 200 medley relay foursome of O'Reilly, Ruzicka, Kracke and Gehrke took 12th place.
Gehrke finished two spots out of the scoring column in the 100 butterfly with an 18th place finish.
"The days of the state meet were different this year, and because of it, we had an additional five days between sections and state," Marshall said. "The good part is that it was the case statewide. The bad part is that it was difficult for many teams to hold their taper.
"Fortunately for the Lady Tigers, we had a great prelims which set us up in good positions for the finals. Unfortunately, by the time finals rolled around we had run out of gas...We have a lot to be proud of though as we had a fantastic season."
