Former Duke All-American and current U.S. national team member Ashley Twichell turned in a pair of top-three finishes in the 5 and 10-kilometer events at this weekend’s Open Water National Championships, held by USA Swimming in Miromar Lakes, Fla.
Twichell came from behind to take second in Sunday’s 5K race, clocking a time of 1:01.53.638. She finished behind only Haley Anderson (1:01.51.291).
On Friday, Twichell competed in the 10K, leading the charge along with Anderson for the majority of the first four laps. The end of the race came down to four swimmers, with Twichell crossing the finish line third in 2:02.39.903. Becca Mann claimed the title (2:02.38.344) and Anderson followed in second (2:02.38.709).
A 2011 graduate of Duke, Twichell was an All-American and ACC champion in the 1,650-yard freestyle during her collegiate career while also receiving Academic All-America recognition. She remains the program record holder in the 500 freestyle, 1,000 freestyle and the 1,650 freestyle.
Swimming News is courtesy of Duke University.
Does this mean that she will go to the World Championships this summer?
From what I understand, the only two who qualify automatically for Kazan are #1 & #2 from the 10K. They get to swim the 10K and get to decide if they also want to swim the 25K/5K at the World Championships. There was an article a few days ago that explained the selection process if you want to read about it.
Actually, I guess Anderson, Mann AND Twichell have turned in a pair of top 3 finishes at US Open Water Swimming Nationals. We are fortunate to have a group of talented women’s athletes in this sport right now!