LARAMIE, Wyo. (February 28, 2024) - The anticipation is palpable as the University of Wyoming men’s swimming and diving team gears up for the Western Athletic Conference Championships. Despite grappling with a recent tragedy, the team is set to showcase their "Cowboy Tough" over the four-day meet, commencing Wednesday in Pharr, Texas, hosted within the prestigious Pharr-PSJA-URGV Natatorium.
Last week, Wyoming’s swimming program was struck by an unfathomable loss when three of its members tragically lost their lives in a car accident. Understandably, the somber event has cast a shadow over the team, leading some eligible swimmers to opt out of participating in the WAC Championships.
However, amidst grief and remembrance, the spirit of competition perseveres. The meet will be broadcasted live on ESPN-Plus, ensuring fans can witness every moment of triumph and dedication. Additionally, live results will be readily available for enthusiasts eager to track the team's progress.
UNLV, eyeing a historic fourth consecutive championship title, emerged as the frontrunner in the Pre-Championship Poll. Grand Canyon University secured the second spot, while Wyoming claimed a respectable third place.
Despite the challenges, the Cowboys remain a force to be reckoned with. Last year's championships saw Wyoming clinch a commendable fourth-place finish, marked by an array of remarkable achievements. A total of 15 Wyoming student-athletes earned coveted All-WAC honors in 2023.
Memorable performances from athletes like Quinn Cynor, who seized the conference title in the 200-yard butterfly, and Gavin Smith, who shattered the school record in the 100-yard butterfly, underscored the team's talent and determination. Notably, the 200-yard medley relay team etched their names in history by setting a new school record.
Reflecting on the regular season, Wyoming closed with a commendable 3-5 record, including a notable 1-1 mark in conference duals. Quinn Cynor, already a standout, led the squad with an impressive tally of 11 individual victories, further solidifying his prowess in the pool.
As the competition heats up, memories of last year's showdown linger. UNLV emerged victorious, securing the team title, with Grand Canyon University trailing closely behind. Cal Baptist rounded out the top three, leaving Wyoming in a respectable fourth place.
The stage is set for a thrilling showcase of athleticism and resilience as Wednesday's action
kicks off at 9:30 a.m. with the 1-meter preliminaries. Each subsequent day will follow a similar format, with morning preliminaries paving the way for evening finals, promising exhilarating battles and unforgettable moments in the pool.
-A UW Press Release was used to compose this article.
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