- April 25, 2024
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The Flagler County Synchro Belles won the trio event for the 16 to 17 age group for the national title.
Flagler County Synchro Belles coach Isabella Vasconcellos told her team before they ventured across the country that if they wanted to make a splash at the national level, they’d have to dream “really big.”
Her team did just that during the week of June 25 to July 2, in Seattle. The Synchro Belles qualified eight total routines for the national competition. Five of the routines qualified for the national finals.
The best finish for the Synchro Belles was the trio event for 16- to 17-year-olds, which features Emily Petkovsek, Carolyne Vasconcellos and Carrie Hartnett. The three earned the title of national champions at the U.S. Synchronized Swimming championships.
Other finishers include the 16-17 duet featuring Hartnett and Petkovsek, finishing in second place. Cassandra Gubala and Lexy McMillan placed eighth in the 11-12 duet. Also, Carolyne Vasconcellos finished fourth in the 16-17 solo routine. Melanie Watkins finished seventh in the 18-19 solo event.
Isabella Vasconcellos said her team was able to overcome several obstacles this season.
“This year, the girls were so frustrated, and they wanted to finish strong so bad,” she said. “I think it was their power more than anything else.”
Vasconcellos added that her team overcame a turbulent season.
“They believed so deeply in their hearts,” she said.
The Flagler County Synchro Belles are holding camps throughout the summer, and the season will begin in mid-August. Tryouts will take place in September. Interested swimmers can call 446-6717.
Contact Andrew O’Brien at [email protected].
