Kennett Killer Whales win big at first home swim meet

KENNETT – With strength in numbers and a home-pool advantage, a large group of 150 Kennett swimmers took first place in the Killer Whales' first home meet of the summer on Saturday, June 17, 2023.

“Our numbers are very comparative to what we've had the past couple of years,” Kennett coach Malinda Harris said. “I really expect to finish with a great season, and we're super excited about finals being here this year on July 15th.”

Kennett won with a combined team score of 1958.5, the Charleston Blue Racers came in second place with a score of 503.5 and River City Aquatics rounded out the board with a score of 327. Out of 88 total events, Kennett won gold in 58.

With 175 total swimmers, four Killer Whales are finishing out their final season on the Kennett Swim Team. Beginning the event, graduates Max Harmon, Sophie Boone, Kendall Ballard and Reggie Lemons were all recognized for their years of hard work.

“All of them have been on swim team for many years since they were five or six years old,” Harris said. “It was great to honor them for their years of service and dedication to the Kennett Swim Team.”

Since the start of the season, the undefeated Kennett team has won meets in both Poplar Bluff and Sikeston. The Killer Whales travel to Sikeston once again on July 8 before hosting the conference finals on Saturday, July 15.

While Charleston is currently hosting meets in Sikeston and Cape Girardeau's pool is undergoing renovations, the Killer Whales were picked to host this year.

“The last time the finals were here, we had a great turnout from the community as far as supporting the swimmers, booths and vendors and food trucks, so we look forward to bringing a lot of people to our community,” Harris said.