CORTLAND — The Jamestown YMCA took two swimmers to SUNY Cortland to compete in the Northeast Paralympic Open and clinic Nov. 1-3.

Elora Watkins and Morgan Zaffino on Nov. 1 in order to participate in a paralympic swim clinic. The clinic was run by multiple paralympic coaches, including coaches from the national team. The clinic focused on fundamental stroke development for swimmers with physical and developmental disabilities. The girls were able to use this clinic as a chance to see other athletes like themselves achieving their goals, as well as learn new ways to balance in the water and improve their swimming skills. The clinic staff provided the visiting coaches new ideas and techniques that allow not only paralympic athletes to develop into better swimmers, but also to allow all members of inclusive teams to refine their skills.

The meet also had paralympic swimmers from around the country, including several members of the US National paralympic team. Watkins dropped time in several of her events while Zaffino was a top-three finisher in her groupings.

“Watching our swimmers compete against members of the US National team is an inspiring thing,” YMCA coach Maria Roehmholdt said. “Seeing them interact with their heroes, asking about stroke technique, race advice, and cheering each other on is amazing. Little can top that as a coach.”

The three day-adventure was a tremendous opportunity for both Zaffino and Watkins.

“I like to attend camp to learn new things about my strokes,” said Zaffino. “I enjoy competing against people who have different disabilities and getting to make new friends from all over.”

“I go to be with swimmers of all different abilities and disabilities,” Watkins said. “I go to be with other visually impaired athletes. And I go to compete.”

The Jets team will head into December with meets in Oil City, Warren, Corry and Rochester.