The Sault Surge Aquatic Team from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, dominated the ABLE Energy Thunderbolts Grand Prix 2026 in Thunder Bay from May 23‑25, racking up 234 personal best times and 76 medals, including 13 gold . Their efficiency earned them the Best Performing Team banner for the highest average score per swimmer, despite fielding a smaller roster than rival clubs.

Emma Vallee and Sophia Li Capture Six Golds Each

Fourteen‑year‑old Emma Vallee and Sophia Li each secured six gold medals, leading the Surge’s gold count and underscoring the depth of talent in the 13‑14 age group. Vallee’s consistency also won her the overall high‑point trophy for girls 13‑14, while Li met the stringent standards for the upcoming Ontario Swimming Championships in Toronto.

Best Performing Team Award Highlights Scoring Efficiency

With 2,864 points, the Surge placed third overall in points but topped the meet for average score per swimmer, a metric that favored their leaner squad of under 50 athletes. According to the event report, both the Thunder Bay Thunderbolts and the Riptides fielded rosters exceeding 70 swimmers, making the Surge’s per‑swimmer efficiency especially notable.

Rising Stars Blake Krivan and Asher Leask Set Club Records

Ten‑year‑old Blake Krivan earned high‑point trophies for his age group and captured the highest‑scoring individual swim award after winning three golds and breaking the club record in the 100‑meter backstroke. Likewise, Asher Leask claimed four golds and set new club marks in the 50‑meter and 100‑meter butterfly, signaling strong future prospects for the team.

Upcoming Meets: Regional B Championships and Black vs. Purple Time Trial

Looking ahead, several Surge swimmers will compete at the Regional B Championships in Timmins, Ontario, this weekend, while the club will host its second annual Black vs. Purple Time Trial on June 6 at the John Rhodes Community Centre pool . As reported, Andrew Li, Sophia Li, and Emma Vallee have qualified for the Ontario Swimming Championships in July, keeping the momentum alive for a busy summer schedule.

Who Will Challenge the Surge’s Dominance Next?

While the Thunder Bay Thunderbolts amassed 55 golds and the Riptides secured 26, the Surge’s efficient scoring raises questions about how larger clubs will respond in future meets. The source does not detail the training resources of rival clubs, leaving open whether the Surge’s model can be replicated elsewhere.