BALTIMORE, Md. – The VMI men's swimming and diving team split a tri-meet Saturday in Baltimore, Md., dropping a decision to host Loyola (Md.) but knocking off Howard for the Keydets' first win of the year. Loyola prevailed 156-76, but the Keydets (1-5) downed Howard 132-72.
The Keydets posted four second-place finishes on the day, including a dramatic runner-up spot in the 200 free relay. The squad of Connor McMahon, Christian Rowcliffe, Christian Purdy and John Kelly were edged at the line after touching the wall in 1:28.60. Purdy grabbed another second place finish, this one an individual accomplishment, in the 50 free. He timed in at 23.03 to record that result.
VMI's other runners-up were Matt Johnson, who was second in the 500 free (5:06.45) and Christian Shaner, who finished second in the 100 fly (54.56). Kelly also logged a pair of individual podium finishes, placing third in both the 100 (49.11) and 200 (1:48.51) freestyle events.
In addition, Manny Bloch was third in the 100 back (1:01.99) and John Armellino was third in the 1650 free (18:52.38).
VMI men's swimming and diving will return to action in 2015, as the Keydets take on Washington & Lee and Ferrum in a tri-meet on January 24 at Clark King Pool. Action is slated to get underway at 1 p.m.
