Isabel Pieget Earns an ‘A’ in National Swimming Contest

Olney’s own Isabel Piegat, 14, is making waves—literally. The young swimmer recently competed in a USA Swim meet hosted by an Oklahoma-based team and came home with her first-ever “A” time in the 100yard freestyle, marking a major milestone in her swimming journey.

For those unfamiliar with the sport’s ranking system, USA Swimming uses motivational time standards to gauge a swimmer’s progress nationally. A “B” time means an athlete is faster than about 45 percent of swimmers in their age and gender group; “BB” ranks around the top 35 percent; and an “A” time puts them in the top 15 percent nationwide. Beyond that lie “AA,” “AAA,” and “AAAA” levels—the pathway to Junior Olympics and other elite competitions.

At the meet, Isabel clocked an impressive 1:00.46 in the 100 freestyle, earning ninth place out of roughly 60 girls aged 13 to 18. Competing against so many older swimmers didn’t intimidate her one bit. “She did really well against so many older kids,” said her proud mom, Kathryn Piegat.

Isabel also placed fifth in the 200 freestyle, another strong showing for the Olney teen, whose dedication to practice and love for the sport shine through every lap. And, in true swimmer tradition, she collected a few adorable prizes along the way—tiny rubber ducks for winning her heats.

For Isabel, those ducks and new time standards represent more than awards—they’re milestones in a sport she loves, proof that hard work and heart go hand in hand.