Olympic Gold Medalists Highlight Field At TYR Pro Swim Derby

The University of Louisville announced today that it is getting ready to host the second annual TYR Pro Derby to benefit the Drowning Prevention Foundation. The event, which is unlike any other in the sport, features a knockout style of competition where swimmers are eliminated over the course of three rounds. Each round consists of a 50 freestyle and the bottom two swimmers of each gender following each swim are eliminated.

According the Louisville Head Coach Arthur Albiero, “We’re kind of combining a lot of things to create a show. To create an entertainment opportunity around swimming, for sure, but much more than that.” Louisville’s release can be found here:

The meet organizers announced today 12 of the 16 total competitors who will compete on April 29th. Among those competing are former Louisville Cardinal and Olympic gold medalist Kelsi Worrell, Short Course World Champion Hellen Moffitt, and the youngest professional in history Michael Andrew.

Last year, in the debut of this event, it was Josh Schneider on the men’s side and Arianna Vanderpool-Wallace who were crowned champions, each taking home $4000 in prize money.

The event will start on April 27th with a Drowning Prevention Clinic at the Ralph Wright Natatorium at Louisville. On Friday, April 28th, an autograph session as well as a banquet and silent auction will take place. Finally, on Saturday, April 29th, the swimming competition will take place at 4:30 pm. Four more swimmers are expected to be named as participants in the coming weeks.

The full list of athletes who have committed so far:

Women:

• Kelsi Worrell
• Ranomi Kromowidjojo
• Madison Kennedy
• Kira Toussaint
• Anika Apostalon
• Hellen Moffitt
• Michelle Toro

Men:

• Michael Andrew
• Kristian Gkolomeev
• Joao de Lucca
• Josh Schneider
• Michael Chadwick

Additional information for the TYR Pro Derby Swim Meet can be found here.