AUSTIN, Texas, November 28. TOMORROW marks the first day of the 2012 AT&T US Winter National Championships, at the Lee and Joe Jamail Texas Swimming Center in Austin, Texas. As the United States' first large domestic swim meet since the summer's Olympic Trials in Omaha, one thing is for certain: the meet will house a very fine collection of athletes. <\/p>\n
Just glancing at the psyche sheet, it's no secret that a number of athletes attending Nationals are representing their collegiate teams. Since times swum at USA Swimming meets qualify for the spring NCAA Championships, high-level athletes often use winter national or invitational meets as an opportunity to earn their NCAA “A” or “B” cuts. The philosophy is: taper down in the winter, get the cuts, then focus on a single taper for NCAA Championships in the spring. The University of Arizona, USC, UCLA and the University of Texas are attending with large contingents of student athletes. Even though it is considered mid-season for college swimming, the University of Arizona is reportedly shaving for the meet. The weekend's relay match-ups are a can't miss. <\/p>\n
Swimming fans had a taste of elite competition at the Minneapolis Grand Prix earlier this month, but Winter Nationals truly marks the return to competition for many London Olympians. Breakout Performer of the Year Katie Ledecky is back in action, racing her signature distance events, along with open water silver medalist Haley Anderson. Nathan Adrian, Matt Grevers and Jimmy Feigen top the charts in the men's sprint events, like Jessica Hardy on the women's side. Hardy announced earlier this week — via Twitter — that she made a last-minute decision to attend Winter Nationals. <\/p>\n
\nSurprise! Made a last min decision to attend Nationals this week. Hello Austin! jessicahardy.net\/events\/upcomin…<\/a><\/p>\n
— Jessica Hardy (@swimhardy) November 27, 2012<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n