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Two local swimmers will be representing Marco Island at the state championships in Stuart. Caelan Burt and Emma Nash, who both swim for Lely High School, have been training with the YMCA's swim coach Kamal Farhat for many years and are excited to compete at state.
Last year, they were part of the 200 freestyle relay team that set a new school record. While they're not sure if their relay team will qualify this season, they will both state in individual events.
Caelan will compete in the 50-meter freestyle and the 100-meter freestyle at the upcoming meet. She placed first in the 100-meter at the regional qualifier and second in the 50-meter. Emma has qualified in the 200-meter freestyle and 100-meter butterfly, coming in 14th and 11th, respectively, at regionals.
Both girls are looking forward to the state championships, having gotten personal records in regionals. Coach Farhat is excited for them as well and proud of their dedication to the sport.
He's been teaching swimming at the Y for 21 years and has produced many successful swimmers. He attributes Caelan and Emma's success to their hard work ethic and willingness to listen to directions.
Coach Farhat plans to continue coaching and wishes Caelan and Emma all the best as they compete at the state.