Marina Olmstead and Michael and Matthew Robinson met two-and-a-half years ago, and although Olmstead lives in Chunky and the Robinsons in Jackson, the three friendly competitors reunited again Saturday.

The State Games of Mississippi’s youth swimming competition, which includes 25 events, began Friday at Meridian Community College’s Damon Fitness Center and concludes Sunday.

“When you’re swimming against your competitors you’re still best friends, but when you’re swimming they’re your enemy,” Olmstead, 16, said with a laugh. “But as soon as the swim is over, it’s back to normal.”

Despite the fact that Olmstead and the Robinson brothers don’t routinely compete against each other in the pool, swimming has forged a friendship between the three. The trio chatted with each other between events Saturday and cheered for one another during competitions. 

The Robinson brothers are affiliated with the Mississippi Makos Swim Team and have a budding rivalry of their own. During Friday’s swim competition, Michael, 11, broke Matthew’s state record in the 800-meter freestyle event (9:41.03). The youngster remained gracious in victory, stating he didn’t give his brother too much grief about breaking his record. 

“I didn’t tease him, but I broke it, so I was pretty happy about that,” Michael Robinson said. 

With 30 swimmers signed up to compete in this year’s competition, youth and masters swimming commissioner Wade Heggie said participation was low compared to other years. Heggie attributed scheduling conflicts and family vacations to the dip in numbers. However, the competition still attracted newcomers from Columbus, Jackson, Laurel, Meridian and Tupelo.

“It’s fun seeing the new faces, and also the ones who keep coming back,” Heggie said. “I enjoy seeing them improve, and just having fun. I just like watching everybody compete.”

Saturday’s competition lured a familiar face back into the pool. Semms Martin, 24, represented Meridian Swim Association, of which she’s been affiliated for 15 years. Martin took an 11-year hiatus from the sport, but still remained around it in a different capacity.

“I’ve been coaching the swim team, and it seemed like a fun thing to do,” she said. “I did one swim meet about two years ago, but that was without any practice or anything.”

Martin ended Saturday’s event having swam a 2:55.16 in the 200-meter individual medley and a 35.55 in the 50-meter fly.