Still the reigning champions of the CNY Counties League, the West Genesee girls swim team began another push toward a league crown – and also, perhaps, a challenge to Christian Brothers Academy for Section III Class A honors later this fall.
The Wildcats opened the 2011 season Wednesday against the combined Syracuse high school entry at Nottingham, where the Section III championships are held each November. Led by Shannon Cahalan, WG recorded a 94-85 victory.
Cahalan, on her own, was victorious over Jordan Donegan in the 200 indivdual medley in 2:26.88 and tacked on a victory in the 100 butterfly in 1:06.33. This followed a 200 medley relay where she, along with Kim Pedrotti, Olivia Castro and Brianna Smith, prevailed in 1:58.65.
Pedrotti claimed her individual title in the 500 freestyle in 5:32.06, with Kim Yager second. Castro tore to a time of 2:04.57 in the 200 freestyle, while Smith worked her way to first place in the 100 backstroke in 1:04.60.
Elsewhere, Sarah Hart, with 110.2 points, took top honors in diving. And in the sprint races, Jessie Brusa claimed the 50 freestyle (28.57 seconds) and Becca Kanoza edged Gianna Branca, 59.54 seconds to 1:00.60, in the 100 freestyle.
The Wildcats are back home next Wednesday for a key early-season clash with Fayetteville-Manlius.
