Shenorock's Jackson Sets Record, Wins Three Titles

RYE, N.Y. -- When Olivia Jackson touched the wall to conclude the girls’ 17-and-under 100 backstroke, she had a good feeling.

The 16-year-old Darien resident thought she won the race. When Jackson’s time was announced, she was surprised. Jackson, who swims for Shenorock Shore Club, had a time of 59.43 to set a new standard in the event Thursday at the Westchester County Swim Conference Championships at Westchester Country Club.

Jackson overcame the former mark of 59.63 set by Kathleen Morrissey (Westchester Country Club) in 2001. Along with her new standard, Jackson also won the 100 freestyle (53.82,) 100 butterfly (58.89) and the girls’ 17-and-under high-point award with a perfect score of 60.

Westchester Country Club won its second consecutive title, finishing with 857.50 points. Lake Isle Swim Team was the runner-up (748.50 points) and Greenwich Swim Team was third (748 points).

In the butterfly and backstroke, Jackson was the only swimmer to post sub-one-minute times.

“It was really exciting,” said Jackson, of her record. “I never expected to break the record. It feels unbelievable. At first I was stunned, but obviously ecstatic.”

Jackson, who will be a junior at Phillips Exeter Academy in September, said her first 50 yards were a “little rough.” She overcame her rough start and was stronger in the final 50.

“I felt my underwater work was good in that my kicks felt stronger,” Jackson said. “I think that gave me a little more of an advantage than in the past.”

Last year, Jackson said she finished third in the butterfly, fifth in the backstroke and sixth in the freestyle.

“This feels amazing,” said Jackson of her day. “To win all three, I can’t believe it but I am so glad.”

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