Doug Springer in the butterfly competition. Photo by Nancy Springer.
Karin Bivens
The National Senior Games were held in Albuquerque this June. Nearly all 50 states and the District of Columbia, Mexico and Canada were represented. Competition in all sports was at a top-level. The swim competition was held June 15 through 19, in an indoor pool facility, and several SaddleBrooke Masters swimmers competed and won medals at this challenging competition. Coach Doug Springer won three gold medals (for the 50, 100 and 200 breaststroke) and two silver medals (for the 200 fly and 200 individual medley). Harold Peter won one gold medal (for the 200 backstroke), two silver medals (for the 100 backstroke, 200 Breaststroke), one bronze medal (for the 100 breaststroke), plus ribbons for 4th place (for the 50 breaststroke) and 5th place (for the 50 backstroke). Jim Spiegel earned a bronze medal (for the 200 free) and ribbons for 4th place (for the 100 fly), 5th place (for the 50 free), 6th place (for the 100 free) and 7th place (for the 50 fly). Craig Shaeffer earned a bronze medal (for the 400 individual medley), 5th place (for the 200 individual medley and 200 fly), 6th place (for the 200 backstroke), 7th place (for the 100 fly) and 8th place (for the 50 fly).
To place in the top 10 of an age group at a National Championship is quite an accomplishment. Congratulations to all the competitors!