Three weeks ago, Jackson Memorial High School’s Connor Murphy put forth an outstanding effort in winning two events in the Ocean County Swimming Championships at Ocean County College, Toms River. Murphy won the 100-yard backstroke and the 100 freestyle.
Murphy’s focus since then had been on making sure to have a respectable showing at the Shore Conference Championships at Ocean County College. He did not disappoint, placing third in the 100-yard backstroke and the 100 freestyle to lead the Jaguars to a 10th-place team finish.
Last year, Jackson Memorial struggled at the conference meet, finishing a disappointing 18th. Coach John Pelano praised the work of Murphy and the rest of his squad.
“We were very happy with the way we performed at the Shore Conference Championships,” Pelano said. “We had a number of swimmers have personal best times in their respective events. Murphy had a great meet. For him to place in the top three was great. He has worked extremely hard this year.”
Pelano was just as gratified with his team’s finish in the 400-yard freestyle relay. The quartet of Murphy, Mark Raimondo, Alex Miller and Alex Carpenter posted a time of 3:29.54.
“It was by far the best performance this group has had all season,” Pelano said. “We were in there against a number of talented teams. We got off to a good start and managed to maintain our intensity throughout the swim.”
Jackson Memorial had a number of other swimmers who put forth strong outings. Adam Forest finished 15th in the 100 freestyle with a personal best time of 53.10. Placing in the top 16 was a first for the junior.
“For him to crack that top 16 is big,” Pelano said. “That was one of the goals we wanted him to accomplish at the start of the year. It was an excellent showing for him. When kids start to see improvements in their swimming and in their times, it gives them a shot of confidence. Hopefully he realizes that and continues to work hard.”
Carpenter was 16th in the 100 butterfly in 1:00.05, while Miller erased almost three seconds off his time in the 200 IM (2:17.25).
“To slice that much time off his previous best time in a meet like this is incredible,” Pelano said. “He was focused and determined.
In Jackson Memorial’s 117-53 loss to Cherry Hill East in the state tournament on Feb. 14, Murphy won the 100 backstroke in a time of 57.80.
Pelano cited Murphy’s race strategy, especially his ability to close out strong, as the main difference in his performances this year.
“He has done a great job at the end of races,” Pelano said. “It seems this year he is able to close out races much more effectively. His hard work has really paid off.”