Meet Simon Swai, a multi-talented senior at Bonney Lake High School with a resume as packed and diverse as his passions. Whether he’s setting records on the track, leading his peers in ASB, or captivating audiences with his powerful baritone voice, Swai approaches every challenge with discipline, enthusiasm, and an undeniable drive for excellence.
Finding His Stride on the Track
Though he started running competitively later than many of his peers, Swai has quickly established himself as a force in mid-distance track and field. His journey began in eighth grade, participating in an intramural season just as the world emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, his dedication has propelled him to new heights.
“My best event is the 800m, my personal ballad,” Swai says. His PR in the event is an impressive 1:59.41, achieved at the 3A State Meet in his sophomore year. He also runs the 1600m, with a PR of 4:33.97. While he took a break from competitive track during his junior year to participate in the school musical, Annie, Swai is back with a vengeance in his senior season, determined to set new personal records.
With Bonney Lake moving into the highly competitive SPSL 4A division, Swai acknowledges the challenge ahead. “The top 8-10 guys in the 800m are all sub-2-minute runners. But the only reason the odds exist is to beat the odds.” He and his teammates are ready to prove that Bonney Lake belongs among the best in the state.
A Passion for Performing
While Swai thrives on the track, his true passion lies in music. He has been immersed in singing since childhood, developing a deep love for classical and jazz performance. His accolades speak for themselves—he is a four-time WIAA Solo & Ensemble Valley Regional Champion and the reigning 2024 WIAA State Champion in the Baritone category. His talent has taken him across the country, from winning at the Schmidt Vocal Competition Regionals and competing in the National Semifinals in Sarasota, Florida, to earning the Ovation Award for Best Soloist during Bonney Lake’s NYC choir trip.
“I’ve been in the high school’s Chamber and Jazz Choirs since freshman year,” he says. As Choir President, he has worked alongside Director Amy Fuller to take Bonney Lake’s choir program to new heights, helping send a record number of students to the State Solo & Ensemble competition.
Swai’s vocal talents have also been showcased on grand stages, from the Washington State Fair to onboard cruise ships. A regular at karaoke nights at sea, he recently competed as a finalist in The Voice of the Ocean aboard the Ruby Princess during the 2024 holiday season. Up next? Singing the National Anthem at the prestigious Nike Oregon Relays on April 4-5, where he will also compete in track events.
A Leader on and off the Field
Beyond his achievements in athletics and music, Swai is a dedicated student leader. Serving as Bonney Lake High School’s ASB Vice President, he has played a key role in shaping school culture and events. Last summer, he traveled to Orlando with his fellow ASB executives to accept the Global Jostens School of Distinction Award, recognizing their outstanding efforts in student engagement.
Swai’s impact extends to the track and cross-country teams, where he has served as Spirit Captain since 2023 and as a Cross Country Captain in his senior year. He leads by example, fostering a sense of camaraderie and pushing his teammates to strive for excellence.
Looking Ahead
As he prepares for graduation, Swai has his sights set on higher education. He plans to double major in Vocal Performance and Psychology while minoring in Film. Though he hasn’t committed to a school yet, he is waiting on a decision from Oberlin while also considering Carnegie Mellon, Lawrence University, and the University of Miami. Some of these schools offer the opportunity for him to continue running track at the Division III level, but Swai remains open to all possibilities.
“I don’t have a dream college—I’m going through the admissions process logically, considering program strength, faculty, financial aid, and the possibility of running track,” he explains. “Regardless of where I end up, I know I’ll be making the right choice.”
With a future as bright as his, there’s no doubt that Simon Swai will continue to make his mark—whether it’s on the track, on stage, or leading the way in whatever he sets his mind to next.