The lone South Kitsap swimmer advancing to state is the one who faced a competitive disadvantage.

Dylan Macabitas, a freshman who attends Cedar Heights Junior High, often was in the pool 30 minutes later than his teammates for practice because students are released from his school later.

But Macabitas overcame that disadvantage during Saturday’s Class 4A West Central District championship meet at Curtis. Macabitas finished fourth in the 100-yard backstroke in 56.08 seconds to earn an automatic qualifying time to next week’s Class 4A state meet at the King County Aquatic Center in Federal Way.

“I was just so happy and so blessed,” said Macabitas, who also finished 12th in the 200 individual medley in 2:10.7.

South coach Cliff Rousell said Macabitas never let his short workouts curtail him from his goal of advancing to state.

“That was a goal of his from the beginning of the season,” he said. “He raced well all season long and trained hard.”

Many swimmers have said their first experience at state was intimidating because there are more spectators and participants than they have encountered before. But Macabitas said he is prepared for that.

“I started club swimming when I was 6 years old,” he said. “I’ve been there a lot. I’m ready.”

Macabitas was among seven swimmers and two divers that competed at districts for South. Only Chris Carter, who competed in the 200- and 400-relays, and Tristan Martin graduate. Martin swam the 200 medley relay and 100 breaststroke.

“We have a lot of newcomers with good experience from the playoff rounds,” Rousell said. “Every single one of them posted a new personal best. It left them hungry for more. They’re already talking about next year.”