Oakdale High School junior Caden Nord has put together a memorable 2017 season. Earlier in the year he etched his name amongst Oakdale’s swimming elite as he set the school record for the fastest time in the 100 yard freestyle at 47.50, breaking last year’s record held by Jackson Metcalfe. He also set the school record with a 47.50 time in the 100 yard freestyle earlier this year. This past weekend, though, Nord solidified his name on a much larger stage, the Sac-Joaquin Section Finals.

The two-day event was held at Tokay High School in Lodi where hundreds of swimming competitors looked to advance to this Friday’s State Qualifying round in Clovis. Nord placed ninth in two events and is up for state consideration following his performances in the 50 yard freestyle and the 100 yard freestyle. In the 50 yard freestyle Nord swam a 21.66 to place ninth overall and his performance landed him at the top of Oakdale High School’s record books in the event with the fastest time in school history, breaking his own record from last year of 22.04.

Later in the day he finished ninth in the 100 yard freestyle where he finished at 47.54, and was named for state consideration.

“I was just trying to compete. All of those who entered the pool those days are true competitors,” Nord said about the intense meet. “It takes a lot out of you. I was trying to stay focused on my technique from my dive, to my turns to my under waters. I am pleased with the outcome but know that my journey to state is far from over.”

Also making state consideration were the girls 200 and 400 yard freestyle relay teams. Placing 11th in each event were Bethany Metcalf, Kassidy Houck, Maddi Blanc and Daytona McGinnis. The foursome swam the 200 relay in 1:45.61 and completed the 400 yard freestyle relay event at 3:57.44.

State qualifying begins at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 19 at Clovis West High School and State Finals are set for Saturday, May 20 also at Clovis West.