TRIO REPRESENTS WELL ON WORLD STAGE

By Charlotte Oh

Guam swimmers Israel Poppe, Amaya Bollinger and Jaden Francis recently competed at the World Aquatics Swimming Championships in Budapest, Hungary, representing our island well.

The three athletes from the Manhoben Swim Club were able to display their dedication and hard work throughout the competition, with Poppe and Bollinger breaking national records, and Francis stepping up to this level for the very first time.

“My teammates and I have been preparing for this competition by swimming everyday for most of our lives. We train hard for meets like this so we can represent Guam well,” said Poppe.

Although these athletes are familiar with the 50-meter pool, this prestigious competition was held in a short course 25-meter pool. Poppe remarked on this change, “Racing in a 25 meter pool is easier for me because I can carry my momentum off the walls into swimming on top of the water.”

Israel Poppe’s first event was the men’s 200 individual medley where he finished at a time of 2:11.02 minutes, proving his experience at high-stake competitions. However, it was the following day in the men’s 100m freestyle that he truly impressed. Starting quickly off the blocks and maintaining consistency throughout the race, Poppe achieved his personal record of 51.36 seconds while coming first in his heat. He was undoubtedly overjoyed, “To break my personal records feels amazing because it shows me that my hard work and dedication is paying off and that if I keep working hard I will stay improving.”

Amaya Bollinger, also an experienced international swimmer, demonstrated her abilities from the very start of the competition. She also set a personal record in the women’s 200m butterfly with a time of 2:29.39 minutes. In her second and final event, the women’s 100m Butterfly, she posted a time of 1:06.38, proving her consistent performance.

Finally, Jaden Francis, competing in the same events as Bollinger, was able to make his first appearance at this level of competition. Tackling nerves and pressure, Francis swam the men’s 200m and 100m butterfly with praiseworthy times of 2:22.47 minutes and 59.47 seconds, respectively.

All three athletes are grateful to have experienced and competed at the World Aquatics Swimming Championships.

“My experience at this meet was amazing, I got to see many people and friends from different places, and I got to swim in the best pools in the world,” Poppe stated. He also adds that he is grateful for the Guam National Olympic Committee, Guam Aquatics, and his very own coaches. Throughout the event, these three swimmers approached each race with positivity and calmness, eager to swim with other talented athletes. This competition not only enhanced their skills but also provided them with lasting memories, so let’s commend their remarkable achievements as they return home.

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