Ron and Betty Manfredi of Madera recently met up with childhood friends Dennis Rowe and Don McAlister at the Federation Internacionale de Natation (FINA) World Masters Diving meet in Montreal, Canada.
Dennis is the son of the late Dr. Robert Rowe and Don is the son of Madera High School diving coach the late Bill “Coach” McAlister.
“Donnie, Dennis, Betty (Edwards) Manfredi and I all graduated from Madera Union High School in 1966,” said Ron. “Betty, Dennis and I grew up about four blocks from each other on Fairview and 4th streets. Mrs. Ruth Rowe still lives in the old neighborhood in Madera. Betty took trampoline and gymnastics (lessons) at ‘Coach’s Barn.’”
During their high school diving careers McAlister earned four North Yosemite League and Valley championships and was selected twice as a High School All-American, said Ron...