2025 Far Westerns in California

Two UVPCS athletes set their sights on the prestigious Far Western Championships in California, one of the continent’s most competitive age-group meets. Coming from different backgrounds and communities, both brought unique strengths to the pool, united by a shared dream to compete among the best.

Ari Stamhuis comes from a strong swimming lineage. His parents, both raised in small towns, swam at a national level with the University of Victoria Vikes in the late 1980s under esteemed coaches Ron Jacks and Peter Vizsolyi, competing alongside Olympians. Their determination, grit, and resilience have clearly influenced Ari, who now represents the next generation of the family’s swimming tradition. Ari’s grandfather also remains active in the sport, both as a Masters swimmer and a meet official. Known for his intensity and focus, Ari approaches every practice and race with a competitive edge, rarely missing a session and consistently striving to improve.

Derek is a natural competitor who approaches every challenge with intensity and enthusiasm. His relentless drive to win is well known among teammates and coaches, often bringing both admiration and amusement for the sheer effort he puts into every activity. He balances early morning swim practices with cycling to school, rarely misses a session, and consistently arrives ready to push himself and compete at his best.

Both athletes attended the Bellevue training camp earlier in the season, working hard to achieve multiple Far Western qualifying standards. With the support of their families, they earned the opportunity to compete in California and test themselves against some of the fastest young swimmers in North America.

At the meet, Ari consistently advanced to finals, culminating in a bronze medal in the 50m freestyle with a time of 28.16. Derek narrowly missed finals in several events, but delivered a breakthrough on the final day in the grueling 800m freestyle. After waiting in the sun for the eighth and last heat, he rose to the challenge and finished 6th overall.

The championships also showcased world-class performances, including an American age-group record of 24.95 in the boys’ 11–12 50m freestyle. Against such elite competition, both Ari and Derek demonstrated resilience, talent, and the ability to rise to the occasion, making the Far Westerns an unforgettable step in their athletic journeys.