Oakdale’s annual March Madness Invitational took place on Saturday, March 14 at the Oakdale High School Aquatic Center. Nine schools competed in numerous events during the morning and early afternoon non-scored invitational.

Oakdale welcomed Lodi, Ripon, Bret Harte, Saint Mary’s, Turlock, Tracy, Downey and Sonora for the exciting event under the sun. Although no official scores were kept, Oakdale did win several of the day’s events including the men’s 200 yard Individual Medley as Nate Van Cleave took the event by less than an arm’s reach over a swimmer from Downey.

“I got out of the block fast and kept my speed up the whole way. My dad has helped me out a lot to prep for this weekend and I look forward to regular season,” said Van Cleave, who also competed in the 100 yard breast stroke. “This whole day is exciting and fun for everyone. We all work very hard to compete to go to sections and this is a great way to prep for the season.”

The OHS swimming program has been successful in recent years and is hoping for a Valley Oak League title this season.

Oakdale will open its aquatic center for several league meets this season, including the 2015 league opener; they were scheduled to host East Union on Tuesday, March 17, after The Leader went to press. Oakdale will host Manteca, Weston Ranch and will have their final home meet on Tuesday, April 21 against Ripon.

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