Lenny Out, Auburn’s Hunt Added to World Championships Roster
AUBURN, Ala., June 6. AUBURN junior Bryce Hunt has been selected to replace Lenny Krayzelburg on the upcoming World Championships team, USA Swimming has announced.
Hunt, who placed third at this year's NCAA Championships in the 200-yard backstroke with a time of 1:41.96, has already had extensive international experience, competing in the 2002 Pan Pacific Games where he placed sixth in the 200m backstroke. The 2003 SEC Champion in the 200-yard backstroke, he was also the 200m backstroke champion of the 2001 World University Games.
"This is a tremendous opportunity for Bryce to compete on the international stage with Olympic-level athletes in the second biggest meet in the world behind the Olympics," AU Coach David Marsh said. "With the rate Bryce has improved, I would anticipate he would have a chance to final or possibly even medal at the World Championships."
Hunt had previously been selected to represent the US at the Pan Am Games but was moved up due to Krayzelburg's withdrawal.
Auburn swimmers have had a tremendous level of success at the World Championships as AU athletes have combined to win 22 medals since 1978.
The World Championships will be contested July 20-27 in Barcelona, Spain. With the addition of Hunt, a total of seven current or former AU swimmers will compete as Maggie Bowen, Kevin Clements, David Denniston, Margaret Hoelzer, Scott Tucker and Ryan Wochomurka were already on the list of invitees.