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Los Angeles Pierce College Athletics

Pierce Swim Delivers Strong Performance at Cuesta Meet

Pierce Swim Delivers Strong Performance at Cuesta Meet
February 24, 2026

LA Pierce College swimming delivered one of its strongest performances in recent years at its first Western State Conference Swim Meet in Cuesta. Highlighted by a historic showing from the men's team and a resilient effort from a determined women's squad. 

The men's team achieved a milestone by defeating Ventura College for the first time in recent memory and finished just 10 points shy of second place. The Brahmas also outscored Santa Barbara, showcasing one of the program's most competitive teams. 

On the women's side, Pierce competed with just five swimmers but still outscored Allan Hancock, which brought a larger roster. The small but determined group continued to demonstrate depth and resilience throughout the meet.

The performance was even more impressive considering two Pierce swimmers competed while observing Ramadan, fasting from both food and water during the competition period.

Jhan Lonina led the Brahmas with a first-place finish in the 1650 freestyle (17:53.48), while also placing second in the 200 IM (2:09.52) and second in the 200 breaststroke (2:23.75).

  • Matteo Podesta placed fourth in the 1650 freestyle (18:52.25), seventh in the 200 freestyle (2:01.79), and eighth in the 100 freestyle (53.62)

  • Nick Bush finished sixth in the 1650 freestyle (19:43.53), seventh in the 100 backstroke (1:05.65), and eighth in the 200 freestyle (2:01.85)

  • Andre Khachatryan placed sixth in the 100 breaststroke (1:09.87), eighth in the 200 breaststroke (2:39.85), and ninth in the 200 IM (2:23.61)

  • Nathan Sentoso finished sixth in the 200 backstroke (2:35.94) and ninth in the 100 backstroke (1:11.51)

Seven additional Pierce swimmers contributed scoring performances, helping power the team's strong overall finish.

For the women, Baran Ebrahimi led the way with a fifth-place finish in the 1650 freestyle (23:13), along with sixth in the 100 freestyle (1:04.36) and seventh in the 200 freestyle (2:22.47).

Other top performances included:

  • Madison Lata placed seventh in the 100 butterfly (1:18.56), eighth in the 100 breaststroke (1:25.06), and eighth in the 200 IM (2:42.38)

  • Sofi Charnelle finished sixth in the 200 backstroke (2:41.43) and sixth in the 200 IM (2:38.79) 

The Brahmas return to competition on March 14 at 11 a.m. at LA Valley College.