On the first day of the Division I boys state swimming meet at Canton's C. T. Branin Natatorium, the Saint Ignatius foursome of Peter Simcox, Nathan Christian, Derek Hren and Charlie Pophal swam to a first place in the prelims of the 200 medley relay and the 400 free style relay.

Derek Hren was second in the 100 breaststroke and fourth in the 200 IM, Peter Simcox was second in the 100 butterfly, Charlie Pophal and Nathan Christian tied for fourth in the 50 free, and the 'Cats were fourth in the 200 free style relay.

Saturday's finals are scheduled for 4 p.m.

For a look at the rivalry that has developed between Wildcats standout senior Derek Hren and Hudson's talented sophomore Ross Palazzo, a rivalry that will come to an end on Saturday, be sure to check out the story by Joe Maxse '69 in Saturday's Plain Dealer or online at www.cleveland.com.