BREAKING: Lukas Iannone, the star swimmer from Scranton Prep, has made headlines at the Les Richards Swimming Championships, setting two new records while securing gold in both the 200-yard individual medley and the 100 backstroke on October 28, 2023. Despite battling illness, Iannone’s performance showcased his determination and skill, solidifying his legacy in the sport.
Iannone’s remarkable victory in the 200 IM saw him clock in at 1:57.42, breaking the previous meet record of 1:57.99 set in 2016 by Nico Lastauskas. “I just told myself to trust my training,” Iannone expressed after the race, reflecting on his undefeated streak at the event over four years. His dominance continued in the 100 backstroke, where he finished in 52.60 seconds, shattering the prior record of 53.12 held by Peter Kawash since 2020.
In an exhilarating day for boys’ swimming, Iannone was not alone in making waves. Tunkhannock’s Jaden Baltrusaitis also stole the spotlight, winning the 100 free with an impressive time of 46.86, breaking a longstanding record of 47.06 set in 2009. Baltrusaitis clinched another victory in the 50 sprint, edging out teammate Kyle Kozloski in a nail-biting finish.
The atmosphere was electric as Abington Heights’ Jason Casper concluded his high school career with gold medals in both the 200 free and 100 fly, displaying his prowess with times of 1:45.19 and 51.81 respectively. Casper leaves the championships with an impressive total of seven gold medals, a testament to his consistency and hard work.
Late in the meet, West Scranton’s Roy Ayala powered through the competition to win gold in the 100 breaststroke, setting a new record of 58.95, surpassing Ken Kleso’s 2009 mark. “There was a lot of work to get to where I am now,” Ayala stated, clearly moved by his achievement.
The Tunkhannock team continued to impress with victories in both the 200 free relay and 400 free relay, both breaking meet and pool records. The relay teams, including Baltrusaitis, Kozloski, Chase Newhart, and Aidan Mislevy, finished the 200 free relay in 1:27.64 and the 400 free relay in 3:16.25.
With districts on the horizon, these athletes are setting the stage for an exciting season ahead. Iannone, who has committed to the College of the Holy Cross, emphasized the significance of the meet: “This is a huge tradition for Scranton Prep to do well at this meet.”
As the Les Richards Championships conclude, the records set and the gold medals earned will resonate in the swimming community. Fans and fellow athletes alike are left in awe of the determination and talent displayed at this year’s event. The spotlight will now shift to the upcoming district competitions, where these athletes will aim to carry their momentum forward.
Stay tuned for more updates as the swimming season progresses!
