A pair of Harlingen swimmers are slated to take their talents up north. Isaac Moya and Zander Mendoza will compete in the 2017 AAU Junior Olympic Games in Rochester, Michigan, July 27-31.
Both Isaac and Zander are no stranger to the big stage. Moya, who is 9 years old, and Mendoza, who’s 10, were a part of last summer’s AAU Olympic games in Pearland and plan on using that experience to their advantage.
“Last year, I was a bit nervous because there was a lot of competition,” said Zander. “This year, I’m not as nervous as I was before because last year gave me an idea of what to expect. I’ve never been to Michigan so I’m excited to be making the trip up north,”
Zander will be competing in seven different events, including the 200-meter freestyle, the 50 butterfly and the 50 backstroke. Isaac, meanwhile, will compete in six events.
“Last year’s competition was fun when we went to Pearland,” said Isaac. “It was a great experience to see other swimmers and compete against people from all over the country. I picked up some new techniques while I was up there.
“For me, the freestyle is my favorite event because it’s the easiest to compete in. I’m not nervous this year and I’m excited to get back in the water.”
Both boys are led by longtime swim coach John Tucker. Isaac is in his second year with Tucker while Zander is in his third.
“The kids have been practicing for this meet since last summer,” said Tucker. “This was our goal to make it to this event. It’s a national meet so we will compete against kids from across the country and the world.
“Last year we competed against kids from Hawaii, China, Europe and Qatar. It’s a fun event to cover and the kids enjoy it, and I’m proud of them. Overall there are six kids from Roma and seven kids from Pharr. Our boys here will be representing Harlingen.”
