BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) – Bismarck High School’s Blake Nelson is not like most swimmers.
“We always know come any meet, we’ve got someone who can compete in just about any meet where we want to put him,” Bismarck swimming coach Cale Schafer said.
Blake is a block above the rest, but he hasn’t always been the best swimmer in the pool. He’s played multiple sports throughout his life including football and baseball.
“I started swimming when I was six, so about 12 years ago,” Nelson said. “I started in long course, then my mom took me out and put me in swimming lessons because she thought I was going to drown.”
“And yeah, now he’s obviously one of the most competitive guys here in the state,” Schafer said.
Nelson is the best when it comes to backstroke. He’s a two-time state champion, and he’s made a splash for the Demons with two state records and five school records.
“It feels good, but not the most important thing,” Nelson said. “I just like constantly improving.”
Shafer said it’s that growth mindset that has led Nelson to the opportunity to swim collegiately.
“I think it’s probably his mind for the sport,” Schafer said. “He’s so aware of everything else that’s going on around him. He knows all the best times in the state from all the athletes.”
Even with a chance to swim at the next level already secured, Nelson has his goggles set on other goals. He wants to break the 50-second mark in backstroke.
“It’s my biggest focus right now,” Nelson said. “Obviously conditioning and working hard at practice, but while doing that you have to focus on the little things you can do in a race.”
There are more podiums to climb in Nelson’s future, but his hope is that he can set an example for the Bismarck boys who want to follow the same path.
“I hope I can inspire the younger swimmers to stick with it,” Nelson said. “Hopefully they want to swim in college one day too, and come back on my breaks and help coach and help them learn.”
Nelson’s quest for a three-peat as state champion will commence on March 7 at the state swim meet.
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