Alberta Marlin Aquatic Club swimmer Jaivyn Barabe will compete next week at the Bell Canada Swimming Trials. (Photo Courtesy Bob Schneider)

By Chris Brown

Marlin swimmer Jaivyn Barabe putting in the hours ahead of Olympic trials

Mar 23, 2023 | 4:30 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – A swimmer who’s been making waves in Medicine Hat hopes making them next week in Toronto will put her onto the national team and possibly the Olympics in 2024.

“I think I just have to perform to the best of my ability,” says Jaivyn Barabe. “Hopefully I can shave off some time and get a best time. I’m trying not to put too much pressure on myself just really enjoy the experience since I’ve never gone to Olympic trials before. But, yeah, just do the best I can and hopefully it’ll all go well.”

If she’s successful next week she’ll compete at FINA World Championships and other international swim meets.

The 17-year-old says it was about seven years ago when she realized how much she loves competitive swimming and the rewards.

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“Getting those times, hitting those cuts, getting medals, placements. even just having a good practice when you hit everything you need to is actually really rewarding,” she says.

At the end of last season, it started to sink in that she could get to the highest level.

These days, the Alberta Marlin Aquatic Club swimmer spends about 12-14 hours in the pool each week. Ahead of next week’s Olympic trials Barabe is focused on her starts, turns and pullouts to nail down those small things that make a big difference.

“My personal time for 50 breaststroke is 33.71. I’m hoping to take off some time maybe go 33.5 or 33 like low and if I do that I think I can really help my chances of ranking well.”

The Bell Canadian Swimming Trials take place March 28 to April 2.