proudly shows her medal.
Congratulations to Simone Manuel, Brett Pinfold, and Kaitlyn Swinney for an outstanding performance at the 2012 USA Swimming Winter National Championships. The group came away with numerous best times, Texas and Gulf records, and a great deal of experience competing at the national level.
Thanks to Simone and Kaitlyn’s efforts, the women finished 11th in the club team scoring. Simone set new Gulf and Texas records in the 100 free and 200 free, and she set a Gulf record in the 200 IM. Simone’s time of 47.97 was fast enough for a fourth place finish and ranks her 2nd all time for 15-16 girls in USA Swimming history. She also finished 5th in the 200 free, with a time of 1:44.86, ranking her 7th all time in 15-16 girls American history.
Brett Pinfold had 100% best times, making his first National finals in both the 100 and 200 free. Brett placed 2nd in the consolation bonus final behind 2012 Olympian Connor Dwyer. This was fast enough for an 18th place overall finish and a new Gulf record (held by 2004 Olympian Jamie Rausch). Brett was one of two 18 & unders to qualify for finals in the 100 free, and he placed 23rd with a time of 44.59.
Kaitlyn competed at her first US National Championship. She competed in the 400 IM and placed 30th with a season best time.