Industry News: GTAC Disability Open Reaches Sixth Year

CINCINNATI, Ohio, May 5. THE 6th Annual GTAC Disability Open will host more than 75 competitors from the U.S. and as far away as Nigeria, at the University of Cincinnati Natatorium from May 16-17.

The U.S. Team's Head Coach Jimi Flowers is delighted.

"This is exciting because since Beijing this is the one meet I have stressed to the new swimmers as a first great competition," Flowers said. "I know that around 15-17 new swimmers will be classified at this meet, and then there are several who have just gotten classified [to compete as Paralympic swimmers]."

Also competing will be 17 members of the U.S. Paralympic Team, including multiple medalists Erin Popovich, Ashley Owens, Susan Beth Scott, Roy Perkins, Aimee Bruder, and Melissa Stockwell, the first Iraqi war vet to be chosen for a U.S. Paralympic team. In addition, there will be several members of the 2009 National Team competing.

GTAC's Head Coach and meet host Keith Kennedy anticipates some great swims.

"This meet has traditionally brought new U.S. and World records, and fresh talent always jumps into the spotlight." Kennedy, a UC grad and former swim team captain for the Bearcats, assures everyone of a great welcome to Cincinnati. "We appreciate being at UC, and all of our great officials and GTAC families who make this possible. We know that it will be an amazing weekend!"

There will be morning sessions on both Saturday and Sunday, and a finals session on Saturday evening. There is no admission charge. Psych sheets and warm-up times will be posted at www.gtacswim.com.

Jimi and Melissa Stockwell

Erin Popovich

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