Irvine, CA – North Carolina Swimming (NCS) was proud to take part in the inaugural MEGA LSC Athlete Experience Swim Festival surrounding the Pan Pacific Championships in Southern California. Each participating LSC selected 32 athletes through USA Swimming’s Pan Pac Selector Tool, which utilized a variety of criteria to identify top-ranked athletes, athletes demonstrating rapid improvement, and swimmers showcasing versatility across events. The result was a unique Future Forward opportunity designed to bring athletes together beyond their individual LSCs and create an experience centered on collaboration, connection, education, and exposure to international swimming.

Four LSCs came together for the inaugural MEGA LSC experience, giving athletes the opportunity to meet and build relationships with swimmers from across the country while participating in training sessions, educational opportunities, and outdoor training in Mission Viejo. The experience culminated each evening at the Pan Pacific Championships, where athletes came together as a swimming community to proudly cheer on Team USA from the front row of the international stage.

For many athletes, the experience was truly once-in-a-lifetime. They had opportunities to hear from and meet guest Olympians, collect autographs and photos, and witness some of the fastest swimming in the world. Athletes experienced World Records, American Records, and Pan Pac Meet Records being shattered while surrounded by teammates and new friends from across the country. And, of course, there was plenty of California sunshine, making the week even more memorable!

The inaugural MEGA LSC Athlete Experience provided NCS athletes with much more than a trip to watch an international competition. It created opportunities to connect, learn, train, be inspired, and experience the power of swimming as a national community. It was a true Future Forward experience—and, as the athletes shared throughout the week, they truly had the time of their lives. Check out the Swimming World article highlighting the MEGA LSC Athlete Experience!

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