By Ivy Knapp

Ian Estes, a junior at Moore High School, has built a steady routine around swimming, focusing on discipline and small improvements every time he gets in the water. He’s been in the sport for six years, and what first pushed him into it was the enjoyment he found in swimming and wanting to get better at it.

Freestyle is the stroke of choice for the junior.                   

“I am able to go faster and longer while maintaining a good pace,” he said.

That form and pace shows during his favorite event, the 200-yard free relay. Ian likes the energy of it and the intensity that comes with racing all-out for his team.                                                                  “I like the excitement and needing to go fast. It’s an adrenaline rush,” Ian said.

His training schedule is very routine. Ian practices four to five times a week for one to two hours each session, and even though freestyle is his strength, he says he works on every stroke to keep his technique right. All that work paid off at the Shawnee meet this season, which he calls his best high-school performance so far.                                                                 

“I placed 2nd in relay and 3rd place for 200-yard free,” he says, something he’s truly proud of.

Ian credits a lot of his growth to his former coach. His team doesn’t have early practices, only evenings, which means he has to stay organized to keep up with school. This year, his favorite class is robotics, a subject he enjoys because of how different and hands-on it feels.

“David Gray has inspired me to work hard and helped me perfect my swimming technique,” he said.

When practice drags on and the weeks feel long, Ian stays motivated by focusing on improving. His biggest goal this season is to make it to the State Meet. His favorite pool to race in is Mitch Park, a place he’s always felt comfortable competing.

“I work on trying to improve on my long training,” he explains.

The toughest part of swim training for him is improving his endurance and speed. His advice to new swimmers is direct and clear.                                

“Practice 4–5 times a week all year round. Don’t get discouraged when you do not place in a meet. Just work on improving yourself and have a supportive coach to guide you,” Ian explained.

After graduation, Ian plans to go to college and become a drone pilot.