Meet Davi Keynes-Levinson, a 15-year-old swimmer with a heart full of dreams and an unbreakable spirit. Diagnosed with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease, a neuromuscular disorder that affects the muscles in her legs and feet, Davi’s journey in the water is anything but ordinary. While her peers rely on kicks to propel through the pool, Davi’s lower body often “goes along for the ride,” leaving her to depend on her incredible upper body strength to keep up.
Her passion for swimming began at a young age, inspired by her sister, but it wasn’t until joining Joe Flaherty’s Dolphins that Davi’s swimming dreams truly took shape. Despite the challenges her disability presents, Davi trains with relentless determination. What keeps her going? The community surrounding her, from teammates to coaches, and the knowledge that every stroke is strengthening her body.
A key figure in Davi’s journey is her coach, Sarah, or as she’s affectionately known, “Mergoddess.” Sarah has been instrumental in Davi’s progress, using a variety of techniques to help her excel in the water. One of their most trusted tools? Dual Boards. From using the full set for balance and strength training to honing specific skills with a single board, these tools have been a game-changer in Davi’s development as a competitive swimmer.
The Dual Boards allow Davi to focus on building her upper body strength while giving her the stability she needs during challenging drills. Through hard work, dedication, and innovative training techniques, Davi continues to push boundaries, proving that even the toughest obstacles can’t stop her from achieving her dreams.
Davi’s story is a powerful reminder that the right support and tools can turn any challenge into a stepping stone. As she trains for the biggest competitions in the world, Davi is proof that perseverance, coupled with the right equipment, can help make even the biggest dreams come true.
Mohamedali, a 16-year-old swimmer using Rip Current Sports’ Dual Boards in backstroke.
At just 16 years old, Mohamedali is already making waves in the world of swimming. Hailing from Kenya, he’s been passionate about the sport since the tender age of six. Now, with dreams of making it big on the international stage, Mohamedali is proving that age is just a number when it comes to chasing your goals.
From the crystal clear waters of Kenya’s coastline to the competitive pools of regional meets, Mohamedali has dedicated himself to perfecting his his skills. But it’s not just his dedication and talent that set him apart—it’s also his innovative approach to training.
Using Rip Current Sports’ Dual Boards, Mohamedali has found a way to swim faster and more efficiently than ever before. This cutting-edge training tool has become an essential part of his regimen, helping him to improve his technique and shave precious seconds off his time.
But Mohamadali’s journey is just beginning. With his sights set on the highest levels of competition, he’s ready to push himself to new heights and inspire others along the way.
And now, you can join him on his journey by watching the first video of our new series on YouTube and Vimeo. Get an inside look at Mohamedali’s training routine with Dual Boards, hear his story firsthand, and see the passion that drives him to succeed.
Don’t miss out—watch the first episode now on YouTube and Vimeo!
The journey towards this competition was the realization of a lifelong aspiration. For Rip Current Sports’ talented brand ambassador, Sarah “Mergoddess” Bofinger, the road to Santiago was paved with determination, passion, and a commitment to achieving a childhood dream. She’s a devoted aunt, vegan, proud Marylander, avid dancer, and now she’s a Bronze medalist for the Paralympics Parapan American (ParaPan-Am) Games!
Innovative Training Methods: Mastering Technique with Dual Boards
Dual Boards were a game-changer in her swimming regimen, a pivotal training tool that elevated her training. Utilizing the best kickboards for swimming, she immersed herself in dynamic drills using Dual Boards, refining her technique to shine in the competition.
Mergoddess hit a rough patch in swimming with previous frequent disqualifications, making her question if she should continue. But when she found Dual Boards, everything changed. The new swim training boards changed her routine, reigniting her love for swimming and boosting her confidence.
With the buoyant boards on hand, she navigated the H and M position to improve her breaststroke kick. As she advanced, her go-to routine included the 1-board isolation drill.
Learn more about those positions
- In the H Position, Dual Boards can be used flat or angled. Applying pressure helps swimmers find balance, leading to a streamlined posture for powerful, downhill-like kicks.
- In the M Position, Dual Boards enable swimmers to observe and understand their kick by watching their legs. They can analyze knee proximity, ankle flexion, and angle.
Mind Over Matter: Mental Preparation for Peak Performance
Success in high-stakes competitions goes beyond physical abilities—it also requires mental strength. Leading up to the event, she dedicated 20 minutes daily to focused breathing, developing a mindset of resilience, focus, and determination. That allowed her mind to be competition ready.
Triumph in Santiago: Winning Bronze and Setting Records
Despite the tough competition, Mergoddess succeeded, securing that bronze with an awesome season-best time of 1:38.74 – a testament to her physical and mental preparation. She also credits her success to her plant-based diet.
Championing Team Success: Supporting Fellow Athletes
Beyond personal achievement, she exemplifies the spirit of teamwork and camaraderie, offering support to her teammates, fostering an environment of collaboration, and contributing to collective success in the pool.
Honoring Fred Evans
As February marks Black History Month, it is important to recognize and honor the contributions
of Black athletes who have made a significant difference in sports. In the world of swimming,
Fred Evans stands out as a trailblazer whose achievements continue to inspire generations of
swimmers.
Born and raised in Washington D.C., Evans began his swimming journey in a sport dominated
by white athletes. Despite facing discrimination and obstacles along the way, Evans’ passion for
swimming drove him to achieve remarkable success both in and out of the pool.
Breaking Records and Barriers
Evans’ groundbreaking achievements started during his collegiate years at Chicago State
University. There, he made history as the first Black person to win a collegiate swimming
championship. His victory in the 100-yard breaststroke at the 1975 NAIA Swimming
Championships marked a significant milestone, not only for Evans, but for all Black competitive
swimmers.
Throughout his collegiate career, Evans continued to shatter barriers, scoring three consecutive
NCAA Division II National Championships. He set records in both 1975 and 1977 in the
100-yard breaststroke. His dominance in the pool showcased his exceptional talent and his
steady determination to succeed in a sport where diversity was scarce.
Beyond his achievements as an athlete, Evans dedicated years of his life to coaching and
nurturing young swimmers. His commitment to mentoring the next generation of athletes
highlights his belief in the transformative power of swimming to instill discipline, resilience, and
teamwork.
Coaching and Mentorship
In addition to coaching, Evans played a pivotal role in advancing diversity and inclusion within
the swimming community. As an advisor to USA Swimming’s Make a Splash initiative and the
International Swimming Hall of Fame’s African American Outreach Swim Program, he
advocated tirelessly for greater representation and opportunities for minority swimmers.
Fred Evans’ impact is deeply personal for many who had the privilege of knowing him outside of
competitive swimming. Our CEO, Jose Gallagher, met Evans during his freshman year of high
school in 1990. Fred led the swim team to three top finishes at the Chicago Public League
Championships. Evans’ generosity and kindness left a lasting impression on those he
encountered.
During their time at Whitney Young High School, Evans inspired his students to excel and
exceed expectations. He connected Jose with notables in swimming like Olympian William
Danforth (Bill) Mulliken. Thanks to Evans and Mulliken, Jose attended the 1991 Stanford
University Summer Swim Camp, a transforming experience that would launch his swimming
journey.
Evans’ Influence
Evans’ commitment to fostering a sense of community extended beyond the pool deck. He took
his students to the Black History Month swim meet in Washington DC. There, Jose and his
teammates met greats like Sabir Mohammed, Atiba Wade, and Joe Hudepohl. He shared
insight of his upbringing and personal achievements. Evans was present at significant
milestones, such as attending Jose’s senior year graduation party. This speaks volumes about
his character and dedication to those he cared about.
As Jose started swimming at the University of Minnesota, Evans was there for support. His
readiness to lend an ear during tough moments shows how much he impacted those he
mentored.
Evans’ legacy extends through his children, Olympian Aja Evans and NFL athlete Frederick H.
Evans, both ran around pool decks as children and then competing around the country and the
world!
In recognition of Fred Evans’ lifelong dedication to swimming and advocacy, Rip Current Sports
proudly honors him during Black History Month. Let us celebrate his achievements, honor his
legacy, and continue to support diversity and inclusion in swimming. In doing so, we honor not
only Fred Evans but also the countless unsung heroes who have paved the way for a more
equitable and inclusive future in athletics.
Before Sarah Bofinger, also known as Mergoddess, took her first steps, she was already making waves. Mergoddess, a devoted aunt, proud Maryland Terrapin, and passionate dancer, has now earned her place as a qualifier for the Paralympics Parapan American (ParaPan-Am) Games.
This venture is far from ordinary. It all began with a dream—a dream that would ultimately evolve into a hard-earned reality.
First Step: Meet Qualifying Times
Achieving a qualifying time was no easy task for Sarah. She has undergone seven surgeries due to congenital hip dysplasia. Determined, she opted to use the best kickboard for swimming, Rip Current Sports Dual Boards.
Dedicated Training
Sarah, a committed athlete, set her sights on becoming a champion breaststroker. Drilling with Dual Boards in her staple regimen, she became a faster, smoother, and more efficient swimmer, shaving precious seconds off her breaststroke. The result? Mergoddess became an eligible contender for the ParaPan-Am Games!
Mergoddess’ mobility, nurtured through her training with Dual Boards, isn’t limited to the swimming pool; it extends gracefully to the dance floor. Her movements are now fluid and her steps assertive, thanks to improved core strength, balance, and body control.
Unwavering Self-Confidence: A Catalyst for Success
Critical to her journey is Sarah’s unwavering belief that, through systematic, disciplined training, she can qualify for any national or international swimming competition. For the ParaPan-Am Games, coaching has focused on drills with the M-formation, a strategy that strengthens the breaststroke kick.
See how to perfect your M-formation here!
The Reward: Mergoddess off to Santiago, Chile
The reward arrived on September 25, 2023, as Sarah’s hard work was validated. Beginning November 17, 2023, Mergoddess will compete in Santiago, Chile, SA, marking a significant milestone in her journey. As she also fulfills her dream of traveling abroad to South America, she will undoubtedly inspire others to embark on their own travel adventures.
The Journey Continues
Regardless of the outcome, Mergoddess will be fully equipped with the improved skills and confidence cultivated through Dual Boards and Rip Current Sports IHM Swim Training Model. Her journey is a testament to the incredible transformation that dedication and the right swim products can provide.
Sarah Bofinger took the best kickboards to Hawaii this week and discovered what Dual Boards are like in the ocean! Sarah spent seven days with the Kona Dolphins age group team, learning new swimming techniques from Karyln Pipes. She said Dual Boards supported her transition from the pool to the ocean in the long term. She did a one-mile open swim with these buoyant boards and came in second in her age group, 10th in females, and 33rd overall out of 330 participants. She had lots of fun and learned new ways to be a mermaid!
Dual Boards are still the best kickboard for swimming and are a significant part of my workout. Since COVID hit, I’ve been in the pool less, but at least I have my Dual Boards. They have allowed me to continue my swim training without a coach. After using Dual Boards for over a year and a half, I can confidently say my form has improved with these buoyant boards!
Of course, I’m a little biased about Dual Boards, for it’s not just swimming Rip Current Sports has helped me with. In September 2022, I started an internship with RCS, and now I am not just an enthusiastic Dual Boards user but also RCS Operations Manager Julia Whittle.
Marketing, administration, beta testing, blogging – you name it. I do everything needed to help Jose Gallagher make Dual Boards the success they deserve to be. Jose Gallagher is not just my employer and boss but my mentor. Jose has helped me manage my demanding position as Operations Manager despite my disability. Working at RCS has allowed me to maintain my swimming while working part-time. It’s been a great experience!
Having progressed as a swimmer from being DQ’d to break American records, Sarah Bofinger impresses everyone who hears about her. Despite her seven surgeries, Sarah continues to improve her swimming with the help of Dual Boards, the best kickboard. She says these swim boards help support body position and overall stroke timing. Dual Boards have also helped Sarah dramatically improve her kick. She’s been using Dual Boards six days a week since 2021 and finds it is the best swimming training board. Now a four-time American record holder, Sarah competed at a major meet at the University of Minnesota with fellow athlete and RCS Brand Ambassador Abby Kershaw last month. Sarah qualified to be eligible for the 2023 Santiago Para Pan American Games selection. Good luck, Sarah!
Sarah “Mergoddess” Bofinger, who recently competed in the Carol Chidester Memorial Swim Series Meet No.6 at the Arundel Training Center in Annapolis, says it was good preparation for the upcoming competition she’ll participate in next month.
“It was a great event and I’d like to thank everyone who complimented me on how good my breaststroke is looking these days. My hope is that the swim prepared me for the Long Course Meter 100 next month in Indiana,” says Sarah Bofinger.
Sarah credits her success to training with Dual Boards.
“Prior to the swim meet, Coach Jose helped me set new goals which included increasing my Dual Board drilling yardage throughout the training week.”
Sarah says Dual Boards helped her execute better buoyancy in her daily practice, enabling her to float better during the meet. In fact, she swam her first 200 BR of 2:58:91, an achievement Coach Jose calls a “solid” swim!
Unlike many of her peers, Julia Whittle didn’t begin swimming until she was in her thirties.
You would never know it.
Now a champion swimmer, Julia was enroute to competing in multiple swim meets before the start of the Coronavirus pandemic. When COVID restrictions hit and swimming competitions came to a halt, it forced Julia to decrease her time in the water. That’s when Rip Current Sports Founder and CEO, Coach Jose Gallagher, approached Julia with an opportunity to test his revolutionary swim aid, Dual Boards.
She not only began dropping her times but she did so with minimal swimming.
Pre-COVID, Julia had been training five hours per week and competing in five meets per year. From October 2021 until today, she’s been training with Dual Boards as her sole piece of equipment. For 40 minutes per day, she intermittently uses Dual Boards to elevate her body and attain optimal body alignment.
“I’ve seen a major change!”, claims Julia. “Since implementing Dual Boards into my routine, I’ve been achieving my best times to date during practice sessions.”
In fact, in late fall of 2021 when she started her Dual Boards journey, Julia’s 50 Freestyle, from a push, was 50 seconds. On January 20th of 2022, Julia pushed a 42 second time which is faster than her best shave and taper time, with a fast suit, of 42.73.
Julia’s 50 Butterfly has also improved since she started beta testing the swim aid. Her original best competition time was 54.14 seconds. Most recently in February, Julia pushed a 51 second swim, and her time continues to improve. If her swimming continues on the same path, she will have her standard cut in no time, a huge goal for competitive swimmers.
Julia is another great example of how a single piece of equipment can help mold a champion swimmer!
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