Flavia Zappa, 35, was born in Cleveland, Ohio. She received her Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance from Northwestern University, Master of Education from William and Mary, Education Specialist from FSU and Master of Music in Violin Performance from the University of Minnesota. No, she is not related to the Zappa Rock & Roll family. Zappa began competitive swimming at age 8, at her community pool in University Heights, Ohio. Her first race was a 25 free, and in later meets, she expanded her events to the 25 back and breast. From 10-12, she swam on her University School team. Summer practices were often at the Cleveland State Univ. pool (site of 2002 LCM Nationals). Zappa looked forward to the ride back as it included animal crackers for a treat. In high school, music became her priority, and she didn't join the swim team. During the summers, she continued her interest in swimming as a lifeguard in high school and Water Safety Instructor in college. Her most unusual swim experience was swimming up and down the lanes in the AARP (50+) triathlon. Remember, she's only 35! Pat Bond encouraged her to join the Mavericks in 2000. In 2002, Zappa received the team's Most Improved Swimmer Award. She has been ranked in the USMS Top Ten for relays the past two years. In 2002, her outstanding swims were the Hurricane 2.4 mile in the Gulf of Mexico and the 5K Postal. Her swim goals include improving all her times in pool and distance events, plus stretching her limits and swimming the 10K Postal. She feels that her greatest achievements are her academic degrees and work in music and psychology. Zappa lives in Bradenton, FL with her father, sister and English bulldog, Wellington IV.

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