News Summary

Freshman Annie Jia of Hatboro made history at the 2022 PIAA 3A girls swimming championships, winning the 100-yard butterfly and setting a new state record of 52.04 seconds. This outstanding performance not only earned her a personal victory but also marked a significant moment for the community. Annie also claimed victory in the 200 individual medley while her sister, Kathy Jia, finished as the runner-up. The Hatboro Horsham team excelled in both the 200 and 400 freestyle relay events, bringing home additional wins. Annie’s remarkable achievements signal a bright future ahead.

Exciting Times in Hatboro: Annie Jia Makes Waves at PIAA Championships

Hatboro, Pennsylvania, is buzzing with excitement following the incredible performance of freshman Annie Jia at the 2022 PIAA 3A girls swimming championships held at Bucknell University. On March 16, Annie made a splash by not only winning the 100-yard butterfly but also setting a new state record that left everyone cheering!

A Record-Breaking Moment

In a stunning display of speed and skill, Annie clocked in at 52.04 seconds, smashing the previous record of 52.99 seconds set by Kathleen Nolan back in 2009. This remarkable feat was not only a personal win but a momentous occasion for the community, as it marked a new chapter in Hatboro Horsham’s swimming history. With intensity in the air, Annie’s victory denied Fox Chapel’s Sophie Shao the chance at a third consecutive state title in this event. Shao finished with a strong time of 54.22 seconds, still holding the WPIAL record of 53.85 seconds.

Delay and Determination

As thrilling as the championships were, they didn’t start off smoothly. Issues with the timing system caused a delay that pushed the girls’ events from the expected 6:50 PM start to a full hour later, beginning at 8:05 PM. However, once the races got underway, the electric atmosphere was impossible to ignore.

More Wins to Celebrate

In addition to her stellar performance in the 100 fly, Annie Jia showcased her remarkable versatility by clinching victory in the 200 individual medley (IM) as well, finishing with a time of 2:00.42. Excitingly, her sister, Kathy Jia, also made headlines by finishing as the runner-up in the same event, clocking in at 2:01.08. Kathy’s talent is undeniable, and she has already committed to Dartmouth University, making the Jia sisters a formidable duo in the swimming arena.

Relay Races Dominate

The Hatboro Horsham team didn’t stop there! They also triumphed in both the 200 and 400 freestyle relay events. The 200 free relay, comprised of Annie, Kathy, Emmy Erikson, and Sarah Parker, brought home a winning time of 1:32.65, breaking the old state record of 1:32.91. Winning the 400 free relay was just the cherry on top, adding yet another victory to their list with a time of 3:23.63.

A Rising Star

Annie Jia is no stranger to success. As a two-time defending Pennsylvania High School 3A State Champion in the 100 fly, she has been making waves for quite some time. Her accolades extend beyond state championships, as she has achieved national recognition and been selected as an All-American by the National Interscholastic Swim Coaches Association.

Future Aspirations

As of March 2022, Annie’s best time in the 100 fly could have even qualified her for the NCAA Championships—missing out by just three-tenths of a second! It’s clear this young swimmer, who trains with the Upper Dublin Aquatic Club in suburban Philadelphia, is one to watch in the years to come.

Conclusion

Annie Jia’s historic performance at the PIAA championships not only sets an amazing standard for future swimmers but also brings pride and excitement to Hatboro. As she continues to pursue her passion, sports fans and fellow swimmers alike eagerly anticipate what this talented athlete will accomplish next!

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