Air Force makes mark on final day of First Chance Invite

DENVER, Colo.- The Falcons carried their momentum from Friday into Saturday's final day of competition at the First Chance Invitational, as Air Force again found success in the pool.

"The team did a fantastic job at the meet this weekend," said assistant coach Scott Cameron. "They brought great energy into the meet and it showed with a lot of lifetime best swims over both days. It was a great way for them to end their seasons, and it gives them a lot to build on for next year."

Lily Bachl was the winner of the of the 100 Free, touching out at 51.67. Ayame Castel placed third with a time of 52.15, while Allana Clarke was fifth after finishing the race in 52.54.

Clarke eventually picked up a win in the 100 Fly, besting the field with a time of 56.09.

The Falcons saw their own take the top two spots in the 200 IM, as Ella Rudik (2:06.33) and Ava Hutcherson (2:09.56) finished first and second, respectively. Hutcherson also finished second-overall in the 200 Back (2:03.04).

In her final collegiate meet, Gina Jenkins was victorious in the 500 Free, as the C1C won the race after clocking in at 5:07.28.

Shea Burcham, another graduating senior for Air Force, competed in a variety of events in her last-ever meet. Burcham placed third in the 200 Back (2:05.02), and added a pair of fifth-place finishes in the 200 IM (2:10.69) and the 100 Back (58.70).

"Gina and Shea embody all the values of the Academy," said head coach Colleen Murphy. "They are going to do absolutely amazing things in the Air Force and we are so excited for their next steps as officers."

The Falcons will now prepare for the Mountain West Championships next week in Houston, Texas. The event is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, February 15.

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