Columbus East Swimmers Punch Tickets to State Finals

The Columbus East boys swimming team put together an impressive performance at the East Central Sectional, qualifying for state in four events.

Senior Misha Machavariani captured the 100-yard breaststroke title in 58.23 seconds, earning an automatic bid to the IHSAA State Finals. Freshman Josh Pendleton also secured his spot by hitting the state standard in the 500 freestyle with a time of 4:39.94.

The Olympians’ 400-yard freestyle relay team, consisting of Pendleton, Eli Isaacs, Machavariani, and Keaton Stephenson, earned a state bid as well, finishing second with a time of 3:17.27.

In diving, senior Gavin Day successfully defended his sectional championship, advancing to the Jasper Diving Regional with a commanding score of 419.10 points.

Columbus North’s top performer was senior Diego Cotero Tapia, who finished fourth in the 100 butterfly (51.82) and fifth in the 200 freestyle (1:48.71).

East finished third in the overall team standings behind Bloomington South and Bloomington North, while Columbus North placed seventh.

The state finals will take place next weekend, where these Olympians will look to make waves on the biggest stage.