6 Types of Swimmers to Watch at Olympic Trials

Photo Courtesy: Peter Bick

By Bri Groves, Swimming World College Intern

As the Olympic Trials approach, all eyes are on Omaha for some fast times and exciting swims. Here are six types of swimmers to keep in mind for your Olympic team predictions:

1. The Young Underdogs

Photo Courtesy: Peter H.Bick

These swimmers have limited experience but lots of promise. They usually fall off the radar of commentators, but have a knack for pulling off fast times when we least expect them to. Often starry-eyed, these competitors thrive under the low pressure environment created by their awe of Olympic Trials.

2. The Persistent Go-Getters

Photo Courtesy: Joao Marc Bosch

The persistent go-getter is someone who has been close to taking the international stage, but fell short. This athlete probably missed the Olympic team once before and doesn’t want to again. He or she has committed to training for the past four years and is determined to take a spot on the US Olympic Team.

3. The Seasoned Veterans

Photo Courtesy: Peter H. Bick

These swimmers have competed internationally and posted some fast times. They have a history of doing well under pressure and outperforming their competition. Their faces are easily recognized and they expect to make the Olympic team.

4. The Big Club Names

Photo Courtesy: Pam Swander

Chances are, you’ve heard about this swim club, but maybe not the athlete. This team consistently produces good swimmers (and a lot of them) but sometimes the athlete names get buried under the club legacy. These swimmers are proud of their teams but hope to establish individual fame.

5. The Long Course Studs

Photo Courtesy: Peter H. Bick

These are the swimmers that lack the physical prowess in short course, but magically excel as the pool lengthens. They usually fall under the radar for half the year, but take the stage as the long course season begins. Lucky for them, Olympic Trials is the perfect time to embrace long course swimming.

6. The All-Around Swimmers

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Photo Courtesy: Singapore Swimming Federation

The all-around swimmer is consistently fast in a variety of events and distances. These swimmers have qualified for Olympic Trials in multiple events, but are not veterans, at least not on the international stage. They have several chances to qualify for the Olympic team and they have their sights set on swimming several times in Rio.

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