Spartan Swimmer Wins Puerto Rican Title

4/12/2015 12:00:00 AM | Swimming and Diving

April 12, 2015

EAST LANSING, Mich. -- Junior Ian Rodriguez claimed the Puerto Rican title in the 100 backstroke on Sunday in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico. Rodriguez posted a winning time of 57.26 at the Puerto Rican International Open.

"It means a lot to represent my family in the birthplace of our family tree," said Rodriguez. "It's an experience that I'll never forget and the best has yet to come."

Rodriguez also competed in the 100 breaststroke, where he posted a time of 1:07.10. He hopes to impress the Olympic committee with currently having the two fastest Puerto Rican times.

"I feel great for him," said head coach Matt Gianiodis. "It was an incredible experience for him and for him to win is even cooler. I think this provides real motivation for him through the summer and next year."

Rodriguez set the third-fastest time in school history, this season in the 100 backstroke. He clocked in a time of 48.41 at the Big Ten Championships in Iowa City, Iowa on February 25th.