Parmenter Gets Back Into the Fast Lane

SIMI VALLEY — The Royal Invitational was part of a new beginning, and a new challenge, for Jennifer Parmenter.

After barely missing a spot on the United States Olympic swimming team at the trials last month, the L.A. Baptist freshman took some time off and two weeks ago switched from Canyons Swim Club to Rose Bowl Aquatics.

Parmenter would not say why she changed, but said she feels happy and comfortable in her new environment.

She showed her skills Saturday in the 29-team invitational, cruising to victories in the 200-yard individual medley (2:06.79) and 100 backstroke (59.25) at Rancho Simi Community Pool.

For Parmenter, the first big post-trials opportunity will be in the Southern Section championships next month.

Only problem is, L.A. Baptist does not have a swim team and Parmenter needs to swim in six meets during the season to qualify for the championships. Louisville has allowed Parmenter to compete in several dual meets, allowing her to fulfill her requirements.

“I don’t usually feel the pressure when I compete, but at events like the trials, the whole atmosphere is made for the pressure,” Parmenter said. “There is pressure here but it’s different. I’m having a lot of fun.”

Parmenter overshadowed a solid performance by Royal junior Jamie McIntyre, who finished second to Parmenter in the 200 individual medley and won the 100 butterfly by more than two seconds in 59.32.

McIntyre and freshman Ingrid Salazar helped the Highlanders to a 158-138 victory over Louisville for the girls’ team title.

Salazar placed second in the 200 and 500 freestyle races.

“At a meet like this, you need to get as many points as you can from your excellent swimmers,” Royal Coach Steve Snyder said. “There are too many good swimmers. The points get more spread out.”

Crescenta Valley won two relays and Steve Kim won two events as the Falcons took the boys’ title, 231-161, over Westlake.

Hart freshmen won three titles. Anthony Ervin won the 100 freestyle (47.82) and 100 backstroke (54.87) and Ryan Parmenter, no relation to Jennifer, set a school record in the 200 freestyle (1:44.92).