SPRINGFIELD — Three area programs turned in strong showings at the Parkview Valkyrie Invitational on January 3, with Carl Junction claiming runner-up honors (175 points), Carthage finishing a solid fifth (113 points), and Webb City taking sixth (102.5 points) in the 16-team field won by Monett (216 points).
Carl Junction continued its impressive early-season form behind standout performances from Elsa Dogotch, who won the 100-yard backstroke in a state-consideration time of 1:06.57 and placed third in the 50 freestyle (26.43Q). Donalise Fifer added valuable points with a fifth-place finish in the 100 freestyle (1:03.91) and fourth in the 100 breaststroke (1:20.49). The Bulldogs dominated the relays, earning third in the 200 medley (2:08.15Q), third in the 200 freestyle (1:56.63Q), and a strong second in the 400 freestyle (4:16.43Q). Contributions from Madelyn Moritz, Bridget Emerson, Sophia Lacey, and Emma Graham helped secure Carl Junction's high placement.
Carthage displayed excellent depth, led by Kamryn Dininger's third in the 100 freestyle (1:02.12) and fifth in the 50 freestyle (27.47). Caelyn Samuelson posted fourth in the 100 butterfly (1:10.49) and fifth in the 100 backstroke (1:11.67). The Tigers' relays were competitive, placing fourth in both the 200 freestyle (1:58.95Q) and 400 freestyle (4:30.01Q), with Evan Helms and Rylee Wallace providing strong legs. Additional points from Kensley Yost, Jocelyn Yost, and others kept Carthage firmly in the top five.
Webb City rounded out the local success with a sixth-place finish, powered by Aspen Ritchie's victory in the 200 freestyle (2:13.72Q) and second in the 500 freestyle (5:54.24Q). The Cardinals earned third in the 400 freestyle relay (4:19.08Q) and sixth in the 200 freestyle relay (2:00.06Q). Kyla Potter contributed sixth in the 100 butterfly and sixth in the 200 IM, while the team showed balance across multiple events.