 BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – Indiana University men’s swimmer Michael Brinegar qualified for Team USA in the Open Water 5K for the 2019 FINA World Championships in July.
At the Open Water Nationals earlier this month, Brinegar placed sixth overall and was the third American in the Open Water 5K. Brinegar earned his spot on the team for the World Championships after Zane Grothe, who finished as the second American, declined his spot in the event to focus on in-pool events.
Brinegar just missed qualifying for the 10K at the World Championships, placing sixth overall as the third American. The freshman was in fourth place overall and was the second American with 300 meters remaining when he lost his cap and goggles after some contact.
The Columbus, Ind. native had a tremendous freshman season for the Hoosiers, earning All-America honors after placing second in the 1,650 freestyle at the NCAA Championships with a school-record time of 14:27.50.
The 2019 FINA World Championships will take place from July 12-22 in South Korea. IU head swimming coach Ray Looze will serve as an assistant head coach for Team USA at the competition.
