PARIS, France, May 30. A little more than two months shy of the United States Summer Nationals, at least two of the biggest names in American swimming could be missing from action in Indianapolis. Why? Well, it seems the French Open EDF is becoming an intriguing option. According to the competition's Web site, Amanda Beard and Aaron Peirsol have committed to race in Paris.
The French event is scheduled for the same timeframe as U.S. Nationals, the first week of August. If Beard and Peirsol indeed travel overseas, Nationals will certainly be missing a pair of major drawing cards. A three-time Olympian, Beard raced over the weekend at the Speedo Grand Challenge, her first competitive step toward qualifying for a fourth Olympics. As for Peirsol, the world-record holder in the 100 backstroke, he's the reigning Olympic champ in the 100 and 200 back events and always a crowd favorite.
More than 20 nations are expected to be represented at the French competition, but the impact on Nationals is the real story. Although the return of short-course nationals later this year is likely to attract a stellar field, this summer in Indy is likely the last time the top Americans will gather in long-course action before the 2008 Olympic Trials. Without some of the big names, a bit of excitement is sure to be sifted out of the meet. Sources have indicated that Beard and Peirsol may not be the only big American names to attend the French meet. More info is forthcoming.