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The “organized chaos” of the state’s largest outdoor swim meet is under way today, as 550 swimmers converge on Waynesboro’s War Memorial Pool in Ridgeview Park.

When Virginia’s largest swim meet — with nearly 800 swimmers — comes to Waynesboro, hospitality in the Shenandoah Valley gets a major test.

Andrew Kellogg came to Waynesboro on a mission.

The Shenandoah Marlins Aquatic Club took what they learned during the year and put it to use at the Commonwealth Games on Friday afternoon.
Katie Keefer wasted no time, clocking in at 2:14.7 in the 15-and-over girls 200-meter freestyle at Ridgeview Park’s War Memorial pool.
“I was a little nervous going in because I’m going to be a junior next year. I needed to step it up.” Keefer said. “It was a good race, but I didn’t get the time I wanted.”

Commonwealth Games
Afternoon results

Commonwealth Games
Friday Morning results

The Shenandoah Marlin Aquatic Club will host the Commonwealth Games this weekend. More than 700 participants are expected during the three-day event that starts this morning at Waynesboro’s War Memorial Pool in Ridgeview Park. It’s the largest swim meet in the state.
Executive Director of the Waynesboro YMCA Jeff Fife said last year’s event was a huge economic success for the community.