Gators Wrap Up Competition at 2011 ConocoPhillips USA Swimming National Championships
Sunday, August 7, 2011 | Women's Swimming & Diving
The 2011 ConocoPhillips USA Swimming National Championships came to a close Saturday evening for 36 Gator swimmers. The meet saw sophomore Elizabeth Beisel (North Kingstown, R.I.) nab three national titles, including a sweep of the women's IM finals, and seven-time All-American Conor Dwyer (Winnetka, Ill.) capture the men's 200 IM crown.
In the last night of competition, five Florida swimmers took to the pool to swim in the finals for each of their respective events, including incoming freshmen Rebecca Rainer (Richmond, Va.) and Matthew Elliott (Peoria, Ill.).
Rainer finished the women's 200 breast in 2:32.65 to take 24th overall, while Elliott finished 7th out of all competitors in the men's 200 breast, touching in 2:14.37. Both times mark a new personal best for the young Gators.
Gators Shara Stafford (Topeka, Kan.) and Jamie Bohunicky (Gainesville, Fla.) appeared in the women's 100-meter free finals. Stafford, a 13-time All-America selection took 14th in the event, putting in a 55:55, while Gainesville native Bohunicky clocked in at 56.44 to finish 29th overall.
Joey Pedraza (Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.) took 12th in the 1500 free with a 15:30 mark.
Next up for the Gators is the 2011 World University Games in Shenzhen, China.
Associate head swimming coach, Anthony Nesty, will be on deck in China to represent Team USA as an assistant coach for the men's team, while former UF swimmer Rex Tullius (Port Orange, Fla.), a five-time All-American during his tenure at Florida, will also represent Team USA competing in the 100 and 200 back.
For all the latest information about Florida Swimming and Diving continue to check www.GatorZone.com. Gator fans are also encouraged to follow the swimming and diving program via Twitter or Facebook.
Day 5: Finals
Women's 100-meter free
Shara Stafford (Foothills Swim Team), 14th, 55.55
Jamie Bohunicky (Gator Swim Club), 29th, 56.44
Women's 200-meter breaststroke
Rebecca Rainer (NOVA of Virginia Swim Club), 24th, 2:32.65*
Men's 200-meter breaststroke
Matthew Elliott (Peoria Area Water Wizards), 7th, 2:14.37*
Men's 1500-meter freestyle
Joey Pedraza (Davie Nadadores Swim Club). 12th, 15:30.95
*indicates personal-best time
