Krakens swimmers break seven club records at season finale

MERRILL – The Wisconsin Rapids Swim Club Krakens capped their best summer season in style, capturing eight first-place finishes and setting seven new club records at the Northern Lake Aquatics Club Intrasquad Meet on July 30.
The meet, held at the Bierman Family Aquatic Center, served as the season finale for the Krakens, who finished fourth overall behind Rhineland, Minocqua and Antigo in the NLAC competition.
“I was impressed with the level of improvement,” said Head Coach Dave Kontz. “The kids worked hard attending morning and afternoon practice.”
The team’s 28 personal records reflected that dedication, with standout performances across age groups.
Travis McMahon led the boys’ charge with a perfect day, winning all three of his events — the 50-yard freestyle, 50-yard backstroke and 50-yard breaststroke. Each victory came with a personal record and new club record.

“Overall this was the best meet of the summer,” the team reported.
Tretton Delaney doubled up with wins in the 50-yard breaststroke and freestyle, while adding a fourth-place finish in the 100-yard freestyle. Emry Jennings captured the 50-yard backstroke title and set a club record with his fourth-place showing in the 100-yard individual medley.
The girls’ squad delivered equally impressive results. Addison Borek won the 50-yard butterfly and placed second in the 100-yard breaststroke. Anna Gumz dominated the 25-yard events, winning the breaststroke and setting a club record in the process.
Willow Devine took the 50-yard backstroke with a personal record, while Aubrey Knoll won the 100-yard backstroke and set personal records in all her events.
Vivian Zacher turned in a stellar performance with a runner-up finish in the 100-yard freestyle and a club record in the 500-yard freestyle, where she placed third.
Several swimmers earned their first competitive experience, including Emma Knoll, who competed in her debut meet in the 25-yard freestyle and backstroke events.
The Krakens will take a break through late September before returning to competition. The fall and winter season will be held at Lincoln High School Community Pool, with the team rejoining NLAC conference competition that includes Saturday tournaments and conference championships in February 2026.
The Wisconsin Rapids Swim Club, a nonprofit organization serving ages 5-18, is part of the Wisconsin Rapids Recreation Department. Information about joining is available at rapidsswimclub.swimtopia.com or through the Wisconsin Rapids Parks Department at wirapids.org/recreation-programs.html.