The 2026 U.S. Open Water National Championships have concluded, and the results have revealed some exciting news for American open water swimmers. The event, held in Sarasota, Florida, served as a crucial qualifier for the upcoming 2026 Junior Open Water World Championships in Santa Fe, Argentina. Among the 12 athletes who qualified for the Junior Worlds, three swimmers from the St. Petersburg Aquatics (SPA) club team have secured their spots, showcasing the club's prowess in the sport.
One of the standout performers was Brinkleigh Hansen, a multi-time defending Junior World Open Water Champion. Her success at the National Championships further solidifies her status as a rising star in the sport. Another notable qualifier from SPA was Ansley Bess, a 15-year-old swimmer who is set to make her mark on the international stage. The Hansens, Brinkleigh and Sawyer, both from SPA, will be representing the U.S. in Argentina, marking significant milestones in their young careers.
The Tampa Bay region, with its strong swimming culture, has produced a remarkable trio of swimmers. Bradshaw Shoemaker, Colin Jacobs, and Lolly Milbaum, all based in Sarasota, have also qualified for the Junior Worlds. While Jacobs trains in France and Milbaum attends the University of Alabama, their connection to Sarasota remains a testament to the region's swimming excellence. The fact that three out of the 12 qualified swimmers are from the same region highlights the depth of talent within the U.S. open water swimming community.
The U.S. team's success at the National Championships is a promising sign for the upcoming Junior Open Water World Championships. With the right preparation and coaching, these swimmers have the potential to make a significant impact on the international stage. The SPA club's dominance at the event is a testament to the hard work and dedication of its athletes and coaches, and it will be fascinating to see how they perform in Argentina later this year.
