Swanson, Hunt continue at nationals

Two 12-year-old Newport-Mesa snowboarders are competing in the 22nd annual National Championships held by the United States of America Snowboard Assn. at Copper Mountain, Colo.

Both Chandler Hunt and Sammy Swanson are already veteran snowboarders who have racked up multiple victories and sponsorships. They were among the elite Wednesday.

Swanson finished 11th in the half-pipe competition, and Hunt was 24th. They were the only Californians in the top 30.

They both compete in the slope-style today.

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Lightning win title

The Newport Lightning Basketball Club’s Freshman Elite Team started out the AAU season in style by winning its first tournament of the season in its first weekend of play.

The Lightning beat Evolution 55-40, San Jose Thunderbirds 36-21 and Santa Ana Swoosh 50-25 to capture the crown.

The Lightning were led by the offensive play of Jeff Johnston, Charlie Coffman, Jack Williamson and Tyler Duncan and the stellar defensive play of Connor Sage, Blake Flamson and Ethan Hold.

The Lightning Freshman Elite Team is coached by Nick Flamson.

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