Ryan's New Record

After a lifetime of battling weight problems and health issues related to childhood obesity, Ryan Nip has hit a new record low of 148 pounds at 16 years of age.  He is proud of his accomplishment, having lost over 20 pounds over several years of swimming. 

In 6th grade, Ryan’s doctor, Gary Gin, met with Ryan’s parents to announce that he was at a crossroad in his life and seriously needed help.  His parents were advised to find a regular exercise program that would activate him to overcome high cholesterol, childhood diabetes and a threatening weight problem.   Raymond and Carol, Ryan’s parents, searched local athletic teams throughout the Contra Costa County and found Berkeley Bear Swimming.  

It was a warm, autumn afternoon when Ryan started as a Blue Group swimmer at the West Campus pool in Berkeley.  The pool was electrified with crowds of after school kids.  Even so, Ryan showed potential to get through the water with little effort.  His first coach, Rick Arnason, quickly graduated him to the Gold Group as he showed speedy progress.  Biani Flores, Gold Group coach, whipped Ryan into shape. 

It wasn’t long before Ryan moved up to the Junior Team where he joined his sisters, Michelle and Teenie.  Coach Jesse did not let up on Ryan, and he excelled with best times in distance events like the 500 Free at 5:21.   Ryan had the opportunity to swim in the Senior Group, coached by Daryn Glasgow,  Head Coach of the team.  He worked hard to please his coaches, and he thrived under the pressure of being pushed to his limits with daily practices, early morning sessions and frequent meets.

Finally, even with some "bumps" and challenges on the team, Ryan achieved his doctor’s orders and parents wishes.  He excelled in the sport with several years of year round swim.  The boy who lost weight has become a lean, tall young man who enjoys nutritious foods.  Thanks to his coaches, swimmers and family at BEAR, Ryan has achieved a healthier lifestyle.  Proudly, Ryan smiles more often as young ladies take notice of him, something new. 

Nowadays, Ryan is lean but not seen.  His parents hope he would attend practice more often, thinking that "adding a few more pounds is a good idea if that’s what gets him in the water."