Patrick Vega, although only a freshman this year, is able to hold his own among the state’s best.  He proved this through a second and third place at State, and through his third place finish this weekend at the Missouri Grand Prix in the 800 free relay with his teammates.  Even though he has already experienced much success.  Vega hopes to accomplish much more in the future.

lhsimage.com uncovers all about Vega’s passion for swimming.

When and why did you start swimming?
“I was in the pool before I could walk.  I was going off a diving board at two and swam the length of an Olympic size pool at the age of 2 and swam the length of an Olympic size pool at the age of 5.  I joined a summer swim team in Dallasat 6 years old. When I moved here, I started up year round on the Rockwood Swim Club when I was almost 9.”

When did you first realize that you were a very talented swimmer?
“When I started to get more first places than last place.”

What’s your favorite accomplishment with regards to swimming?
“[My favorite accomplishment was] this past weekend– getting a third place medal at the Missouri Grand Prix with my teammates.”

How exactly did you qualify for the Missouri Grand Prix and how did you feel when you realized you had qualified the first time?
“There are certain time standards for this meet.  This year they were much faster than last year.  How?  I honestly don’t know.  I kind of just went fast enough to go there I guess.  When I found out, it was a pleasant surprise.”

Where do you hope swimming takes you in the future?
“All over the world.”