Senior swimmer Judd Lunsford has been a cornerstone of Randolph Raiders’ swim team, with a storied career that includes two state championships and two school records. As Lunsford enters his final senior season, he reflects on the 2021 season, which marked a turning point for both him and the team. In 2021, the Randolph Boys Swim & Dive program won their first ever team State Championship!

"Winning the 200 IM was a goal of mine for a while, so it felt great to achieve that," Lunsford said. That year, he also helped secure the 400 Free Relay, a collective team victory. The 2021 season was a culmination of years of hard work, discipline, and growth, for Lunsford, but it was just the beginning. "It was a great success for me and the team," he recalled, setting the stage for more ambitious goals in his senior year.

Lunsford’s individual accomplishments include setting two school records last season: a 1:54.91 in the 200 Individual Medley (IM) and a 52.05 in the 100 Backstroke. He attributes these successes to the dedication he’s poured into training. “Setting those school records means a lot to me," he said. "It’s a reflection of all the hard work I’ve put in." But Lunsford is quick to emphasize that, for him, these records are stepping stones, not endpoints. "There’s always more to accomplish, and that keeps me motivated."

His commitment to both individual success and team achievement has made him a leader in the pool. As he looks ahead to his final year, Lunsford’s goals remain lofty. He hopes to win state championships in both the 200 IM and 100 Backstroke. "I’d like to win state in both my individuals and help Randolph bring home another state championship," he said. .

Lunsford’s favorite events, the 200 IM and 100 Backstroke, require different mindsets. "The 200 IM challenges me with all four strokes, making it a strategic and versatile race," he explained. In contrast, the 100 Backstroke demands raw speed and precision. "It’s all about explosive starts and maintaining speed," he added. These distinctions in the events shape his training, but the mental side of swimming is equally important. Lunsford uses a combination of visualization and focus on execution to stay calm under pressure.

A leader by example, Lunsford embraces the responsibility of mentoring younger swimmers. “I want the younger swimmers to see that hard work and consistency pay off,” he said. He offers advice on everything from race-day nerves to technique. His biggest advice is to stay focused, even when setbacks arise.

Looking ahead, Lunsford has his sights set on swimming in college. “I’m looking for a program that will develop me as a swimmer while also giving me a great education,” he explained. But before that, his focus is firmly on finishing his high school career on a high note. With Randolph moving back to 5A, Lunsford is eager to see how the team performs at state. "Being back in 5A gives us a good shot at winning state again," he said.

As he wraps up his time with Randolph, Lunsford hopes his legacy will be one of dedication and leadership. “I want to be remembered as someone who consistently worked hard, inspired others, and always gave their best,” he reflected. With his final season underway, Lunsford is poised to leave a lasting mark on Randolph Swimming.

Make sure to check out Judd and the Raiders Swim & Dive team this season at the Huntsville Aquatic Center!