Duel in the Pool Ready For a Second Run

IRVINE, Calif., May 6. WHILE the World Championships will end July in splendid fashion, August is certain to get off to a sizzling spark, thanks to the second edition of the Mutual of Omaha Duel in the Pool, scheduled for Irvine, Calif.

The event, matching the World Championship teams of the United States and Australia in a dual-meet format, is scheduled for Aug. 2. When the United States and Aussies met two years ago, the Stars and Stripes came away with a dominating victory.

“The Mutual of Omaha Duel in the Pool is becoming our sport’s version of the Super Bowl,” said Chuck Wielgus, USA Swimming Executive Director. “When Australia and the United States go head-to-head, it determines the best swimming team in the world.”

The Duel in the Pool will feature combined team scoring, with the winning team honored with a traveling trophy. Any world records set during the competition will result in a $25,000 bonus. In the first edition of the event, Michael Phelps established a global record in the 400 I.M. and an American mark in the 100 butterfly.

Held at the Woollett Aquatic Center, which seats 2,600, the meet is scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. (PDT). NBC Television will air three hours of coverage, split between August 6 (4:30-6 p.m.) and August 7 (1-2:30 p.m.). Contested in a long-course format, the meet will include 14 events with a scoring system of 5-3-2-1 on an individual basis and 7-0 in relays. Athletes can swim up to four events, including relays.

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