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The Westport Weston Family Y Masters swim team will take inspiration from former coach and fellow swimmer Maura Marden when it competes in the Masters National swim meet this week in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Marden lost her struggle against cancer in September. "Maura was a huge fan of Bruce Springsteen and loved the song 'No Surrender,'" said Jacquie Tumminia, senior director of aquatics and competitive swimming for the Family Y. "The song had a strong meaning as Maura believed that she would 'not surrender' to her cancer. I think it's wonderful for the team to rally together and remember her in this way."
The Family Y team has dedicated this year's training and competitive effort at the YMCA Masters Nationals to Marden. Members have unofficially adopted the pink heart suit in remembrance of her and will be wearing pink team caps with the phrase "No Surrender" on it.
The YMCA Masters Nationals is open to swimmers ages 18 and older. The competition is contested in age groups from 18-24 to 95-99 (and 100+). Distances range from 50 yards to 1,650.
The Family Y team members attending Nationals are: Kim Russo, Laina Grillo, Sheila Stolarski, Barbara Baker, Cathy Milton, Colleen Brandon, Kelli Fitter, Heather Friel, Liz Fry, Mike Laux, Jake Gulick, Bill Geogehagen and Sean O'Connor. Team members unable to attend Nationals will be with Maura and the "No Surrender" squad in spirit.
Do you recall Maura Marden and her tenacious spirit? Start the discussion below!
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