BU Swimmers Hold Their Own Against D-II Converse

SPARTANBURG, Sc - The Golden Tigers swim team competed in the Converse College All Women's Invitational on Friday, October 14th and Saturday, October 15th. Those that participated in the event include Converse College (with 15 swimmers), Brenau University (with 8 swimmers), and Hollins University (with 16 swimmers).

Brenau placed 1st in 8 of 16 events, out touching Converse College in close races in the 200 backstroke, 200 breaststroke, 200 butterfly, 100 breaststroke and 100 free. The Golden Tigers opened the meet with a sweep in the 200 Medley Relay (1:54.63), and continued to build steam throughout the meet, finishing 2nd overall. The final scores resulted with Converse earning 378 points, Brenau 195, and Hollins 121.

Over the course of the weekend, 2 new Brenau records were set by Michelle Billeaud (Lafayette, LA) in the 100 back (1:00.00) and the 200 back (2:10.06). The previous records were held since 1975 and 1978. In addition, personal best times were achieved by Monica Souther (Dalton, GA) in the 50 free, 100 fly, and 200 free.

During the Invitational, the Golden Tigers were able to achieve an impressive total of 18 NAIA National Swimming A, B, and Relay qualifying times standards.

Among the National "A" qualifying times reached, include:

Michelle Billeaud (Lafayette, LA)- 100 back ** (1:00.00), 200 back ** (2:10.06), and 100 free** (55.38).
Hannah Boudreaux (Lafayette, LA) -200 breaststroke** (2:30.18), 100 breaststroke** (1:10.70), and 400 IM** (4:44).
Meredith Barrington (Macon, GA) -100 fly (1:02.28), 200 fly** (2:17.21), and 50 free ** (25.98).

Lisa Portwood (Marietta, GA) - 200 free (2:03.98) and 500 free **(5:24.43).

When asked about the team's performance, Head Coach Blaire Bachman responded by saying "incredible doesn't even describe the results of this weekend's invitational, everyone on our team came ready to race and they did just that. Each swimmer is determined, positive, and eager to achieve their personal best."

The Brenau University swim team is eager to compete against Pfeiffer University and Queens University, at the Tri-meet held on Friday, October 28th.