Fort Smith Tideriders member uses swimming to prep for a military career

Swimming has been more than just a recreational activity for Sawyer Jones. A Muldrow native, he also swims on the competitive level with the Fort Smith Tideriders swim club. He’s also using swimming to prepare him for a future military career in special operations.

“I am working toward a future goal of becoming a U.S. Air Force Pararescue (also known as a PJ or a pararescue jumper),” Jones said. “Pararescue training is one of the most demanding military training pipelines, designed to prepare airmen to recover and provide medical care to personnel in both combat and humanitarian situations.

“If I am selected for the pipeline, I will go through extensive training in areas such as advanced swimming, diving, survival skills, emergency medical training, parachuting and combat tactics. The goal is to be capable of operating in highly stressful and dangerous environments to save lives and recover injured personnel. It requires a high level of physical fitness, mental toughness and commitment.”

Jones is preparing for that chance by being active in the pool.

“I participate in several freestyle, backstroke and butterfly events,” Jones said. “My events include the 50 (meter) freestyle, 100 freestyle, 200 freestyle and 500 freestyle, as well as the 50 backstroke, 100 backstroke, 200 backstroke, 50 butterfly and 100 butterfly.”

Jones, who swims anywhere from four to five days a week, has been swimming competitively for about one year. Of the numerous events Jones swims, he singles out the 50 meter butterfly as his favorite.

“That’s because it is fast-paced and very challenging,” he said. “I enjoy the intensity of the event and the level of speed, power and technique it requires. I like pushing myself in difficult races, and the 50 butterfly demands focus and maximum effort from start to finish.”

Jones, who has been homeschooled, was able to participate in various high school and summer swim meets over the past year. He said swimming competitively challenges him to improve his skills. That also played a part in his decision to join the Tideriders, which he has done for nearly a year. Jones also enjoys the opportunity to work with Tom Bullock, the Tideriders’ coach.

“Tom is a strong coach who encourages his swimmers to give their best effort and continue improving,” Jones said. “He creates an environment that challenges athletes while also supporting their growth, and I appreciate the experience and guidance he brings to the team.”

As far as his swimming in the early stages of summer goes, Jones has been encouraged. He’s also looking forward to a June competition.

“I also have the Creekmore Classic coming up (June 19-20) at Fort Smith’s Creekmore Park pool), which I’m looking forward to competing in. I’m excited for the opportunity to continue improving my times and gaining more competitive experience.”

Jones doesn’t plan to swim collegiately, and will instead pursue his dream of being a pararescue jumper in the U.S. Air Force. Swimming isn’t the only activity Jones does, and those other pastimes continue to prepare him for his upcoming military duties.

“I practice karate and I spend a lot of time training for the U.S. Air Force Pararescue pipeline,” he said. “Away from the pool, I like running, rucking, calisthenics and anything outdoors. A lot of what I do outside of swimming is focused on preparing myself mentally and physically for special operations.”

But swimming this summer for the Tideriders continues to be a part of the plan for Jones regarding his future.

“My objective this summer is to continue improving my overall performance by becoming faster, building more endurance, and refining my technique in every event I compete in,” he said.