Harrah outlasts Altus in memorable showdown

The Harrah boys after winning their first swimming championship

Splitting up swimming into two separate sessions is a great idea for fans and the schools. It makes for an incredibly long weekend for media members and the workers at OCCC.

So sometimes, yea, I admit to being a little tired during that second session. But I woke right back up during the 5A boys battle between Harrah and Altus.

The Panthers ultimately came out on top to earn their first championship. How close was it? Let’s go event-by-event with a breakdown:

Event No. 1 – 200 Medley Relay
Less than .5 separated the first from third-place teams. Fort Gibson ended up with the win, followed by Harrah and Altus. Altus came in with best qualifying time so this was a bonus for Harrah. Points: Harrah 34-32.

Event No. 2 – 200 Freestyle
Obviously there is no touching Chickasha’s Isaac McKnight. He was dominant as he’s been all four of his years with the Chicks. Altus’s Brandon Alcorta was fourth. Points: Harrah 63-56.

Event No. 3 – 200 IM
Great performance by Heritage Hall’s Matt Veneklasen in this one as he earned his first individual championship. Harrah’s Matt Reaves placed third. Points: Harrah 85-81.

Event No. 4 – 50 Free
This is where the tide went toward Altus. Harrah Braden Hobaugh came in with the top qualifying time, but it was Altus’ Brady George who got the win. That’s a six-point swing right there. By .06 George edged out Hobaugh. Points: Altus 112-109.

Event No. 5 – 100 Butterfly
Miami’s Khyle Hill had a banner day, including winning the 100 fly. Huge points for Altus as Harrah didn’t have one person qualify in this event. Michael Rogers placed third. Points: Altus 139-109.

Event No. 6 – 100 Freestyle
Once again it was McKnight of Chickasha carrying the day. Hobaugh bounced back to place fifth to edge the Panthers a little bit closer. Points: Altus 155.5-136.