MISSOULA, Mont. – Missoula is pumping out the Olympic medals after Garden City native Katharine Berkoff was able to secure a podium spot and take home a bronze medal during Tuesday’s women’s 100-meter backstroke.
From people around the community, the mood was one of positivity and joy after Berkoff secured bronze with a time of 57.98 seconds.
“I think it’s fabulous. Small town where? And we got her! Let it rip! Good for her,” said Missoula resident, Marty Kane.
“I really was proud to see that she got as far as she did. It was really great. It’s just really awesome that she got as far as she did and Missoula should be really proud,” said another Missoula resident, Jeff Shaffner.
Senator Jon Tester even shared a picture watching the race and his office tells NonStopLocal that the senator plans to celebrate Berkoff with a Congressional Record Citation on Wednesday.
“I rise today to recognize an outstanding Montanan who today took home the bronze Olympic medal in women’s 100m backstroke… Katharine, you have made Montana proud. Team USA is lucky to have you… I join today with my fellow Senators to congratulate you on this remarkable achievement. I’ve got a feeling you will continue to do great things,” is the message that Senator Tester plans to share.
If you are looking for the next Missoula Olympian at home, the Garden City is not short of swim lessons. Splash Montana and Currents in Missoula currently offer summer swim lessons and swim school for those interested.
