Thunder Struggle in the Heat at Glendive

Three hundred and two miles, 91 degrees, 47 events, 26 swimmers, two days. That all adds up to fourth place and two high point winners for the Glasgow Kiwanis Thunder. The fourth swim meet of the season was held in Glendive this past weekend. Overall, the team struggled with the heat, but many swimmers still managed to improve their times in individual events. The Thunder also managed to claim high point status in two age groups. Katie Kaiser earned high point in the 13–14 year old girls with two first place finishes and one second place finish. Dalton Sand swept the boys 9-10 year old category with first place finishes in each of his events.

According to head coach Nicole Arnold, the team still has some things to work on. "We need to work on technique with the younger swimmers," she said. "Even seasoned swimmers can be disqualified in some of the more complex strokes, so we just have to work on adjusting some things for the kids in those events." She also explained that the team needs to continue working on their dives and turns. "A bad dive or an ineffective turn can make all the difference in some of these races", she explained.

Assistant coach Gervi Cadimas said that the weather can also play a role in the performance of the swimmers. When the temperature reaches 90-plus degrees, it's hard for the kids to perform at their best, just like in any other sport. "People tend to think that if the kids are swimming, they can't feel the effects of the heat," explained Cadimas. "That's not true. They need to stay hydrated and out of the sun throughout the day. It's important for them to rest and take care of themselves – especially when we're competing all day in the heat."

Practice continues for the Thunder and they will be preparing for the swim meet in Lewistown this coming Fourth of July weekend.