The Salina Aquatics Club (SAC) demonstrated exceptional performances at the 2023 Midwest Winter Classic, hosted by the Kansas City Blazers Swim Team at the Shawnee Mission School District Aquatic Center from December 1 to 3, 2023. The meet was a 25-yard short course format, with preliminary heat races in the morning, followed by an evening finals session each night, with eight racers in each of the A and B finals for each event. The meet was focused on advanced swimmers, requiring qualifying times to enter. Swimmers from clubs based in Kansas, Missouri, Colorado, and Nebraska were in attendance.
Competing for Salina in the 15-18 year old girls division were Josie Ebel, a Salina Central sophomore, and Ali Richardson, a Southeast of Saline junior, along with Clayton Shamburg, a Bennington 8 th grader who competed in the 13-14 year old boys division.
Coach Jake Jacobs expressed pride in the athletes' achievements, stating, "Josie, Ali, and Clayton showcased exceptional dedication and skill at the Midwest Winter Classic. Their performances in the finals reflect the hard work and commitment they bring to each race. We are excited about the trajectory of our swimmers and the bright future of the Salina Aquatics Club."