Great-granddaughter of resident tries out for U.S. Olympic Team

Lauren Barakey, the great-granddaughter of independent living resident Wanda Culver, recently competed in the U.S. Olympic swimming trials in Omaha, Neb. Lauren was one of 1,305 athletes vying for a spot on the team that will be heading to Japan at the end of July.

During the meet, Lauren swam a 1.13.89 in the 100m Breaststroke. While she didn’t make the final team, the outcome did little to diminish her great-grandmother’s support.

“I am very proud of her,” said Wanda.

While Wanda was unable to attend the meet in person, she has been able to cheer her on in the past and says both Lauren and her brother, Lucas, have been swimming their entire lives.

“I think she was brought up swimming,” said Wanda. “Her and her brother are both very good swimmers.”

In the fall, Lauren will return to Virginia Tech, where she will be a sophomore on the swimming and diving team.

‍