In early September, synchronized swimming enthusiast Kate Chow, grade 11, helped team USA win the gold at the UANA Pan-American Synchronized Swimming Championship in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The team faced international competition from many South American countries, as well as from Canada.

“I actually began synchro because I didn’t make a dance team, and I needed something to do,” said Chow, who has been involved with synchronized swimming since the fifth grade. “It combined gymnastics, dance and swimming, and previously, I participated in all three separately.”

In the last six years, Chow has been a member of three U.S. nationals-winning teams. She plans to continue swimming with her club, the Santa Clara Aquamaids, and also would like to compete in college.