USAAS and UANA to host Youth and Junior International Open

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -USA Artistic Swimming, in partnership with UANA and presented by Fluidra, will be hosting a Youth and Junior International Open on U.S. soil in Clearwater, Fla. From August 16-24. The Long Center will be the host site for the event, offering a beautiful landscape for participants from around the world. The creation of this event follows the unfortunate cancellation of the 2021 Youth and Junior World Championships. Upon hearing of the cancellation, USA Artistic Swimming could not let another year go by without a high-level, competitive opportunity for athletes of these age groups to work towards. The organization is thankful UANA shares that vision and is dedicated to providing those opportunities for young swimmers in our country and from around the world.  

USA Artistic Swimming is excited to have the opportunity to host this international meet and appreciative of the great facility team in Clearwater, Fla. For the quick turnaround in securing a top-notch facility. Clearwater is regularly regarded as home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, offering miles of sandy Gulf Coast beaches and stunning blue water. Guests can expect temperatures in the mid 80’s and a high-caliber event with appropriate safety measures in place. More information about the event, safety measures, location and logistics will be released as it becomes available. 

Adam Andrasko, CEO of USA Artistic Swimming, is elated to be able to host this opportunity: “This event is an incredible opportunity for the emerging athletes of all competing countries. The teamwork of many groups has been exceptional to ensure we have the support to pull off this event in a shorter-than-usual timeframe. We look forward to hosting all artistic swimming countries in safe and incredibly enjoyable event.”

“The youth and junior athletes have been training for the last two years through all the obstacles and difficulties caused by the pandemic, holding on to hope that there will be a competition soon.  Due to all postponements, the 2021 calendar left little to no room for the under 18 age group. This event will provide these athletes the opportunity to compete, to showcase their talents, to connect with one another and realize that they are strong and resilient and a very important part to the development of the sport. UANA is excited and proud to be part of this event together with USA Artistic Swimming,” Maureen Croes, UANA President, said.