Sherri, Darby & Greg Hanna awarding the Best Sportsmanship Trophy to Maddie Meyer

Story by Sherri Hanna; photos by Stan Krute

It was a cool and cloudy day for the 11th annual Rachel Hanna Swim Olympics, but that did not deter the eager swimmers from coming out and having a fabulous day of fun. Over 100 parents and children attended the event and had a great day of swimming and competing in games such as Coin Wish Pond, Rubber Ducky Push and the Biggest Splash Contest.

The coveted Sportsmanship trophy was awarded to Maddie Meyer, daughter of Steve and Jennifer Meyer of Etna. Her name will be added to the plaque that remains in the lobby of Scott Valley Community Swimming Pool throughout the year. Several other participants were given Best Sportsmanship ribbons and ice cream certificates to Dotty’s in Etna. These winners are observed throughout the day by secret judges who select the children who exhibit good manners and kindness to others. These traits were some of Rachel Hanna’s most notable and this is how she is honored each year at the swim Olympics.

The Hanna Family would like to say thank you to everyone who attends and participates, and to Cliff’s Trophy in Yreka for donating the Sportsmanship trophy each year. As the Scott Valley Swimming pool officially closed the day before on August 20th, a special thank you to the pool staff and lifeguards for staying on one more day!

The whole group of Olympians!

Ty Bradford in mid-flight during the Biggest Splash contest

Maddie Meyer and friends enjoy their ribbons and the day

Diving for pennies during the Coin Wish Pond game

Young'uns Carter Isbell and Macey McNames enjoy the day and a bit of flirtation