Diving into Defeat: Men’s Swimming Team Falls to Cornell at Conference Showdown

ITHACA, N.Y. — The Columbia men’s swimming and diving squad was back in action on Saturday, competing against the Cornell Big Red during an Ivy meet. The Lions showcased impressive performances in the pool, yet the Big Red secured a 178-121 victory. 

“Cornell performed exceptionally today,” Head Coach Jim Bolster remarked. “The last time they defeated us was in 2017, and on their senior day, they were particularly motivated to break the streak. I believed we competed well, but we simply were not at our peak.”

Zach Vassar initiated the day with an explosive start, clinching the first individual swimming event. He finished strongly in the 1000 free, recording a time of 9:07.99. 

Demirkan Demir triumphed in the 100 breast, clocking in at 53.20. 

Zion James continued his excellent streak in the 50 free, finishing first with a time of 44.47. 

Joshua Corn also had a commendable outing, winning the 200 breast with a time of 1:57.28. 

Joseph Nicol excelled to lead the divers. First, he secured victory in the 3m boards, achieving a score of 355.35. Then, he followed that by winning the 1m boards with a score of 318.90. 

“Today was thrilling for diving,” Head Diving Coach Scott Donie expressed. “Everyone was at or around their highest scores of the season. I couldn’t be more proud.”

The complete results from the meet, featuring all of the Lions’ top performers and their times, can be accessed HERE.

Columbia will be competing again next weekend as the Lions head to Navy on Friday, February 24 at noon. 

 

For the most recent updates on the Columbia men’s swimming and diving program, follow @CULionsMSD and @CULionsDiving on Instagram and Twitter, and visit GoColumbiaLions.com.