Elite Open Water Swimming - Catherine Case, Haley Anderson 

The meeting introduced Catherine and Haley, highlighting their extensive experience in open water swimming. Catherine, known for her energy and coaching skills, has mentored Haley, a silver medalist and national team leader. Haley's career spans over a decade, with notable achievements including qualifying for three Olympic Games and winning a medal in the 2019 World Championships. The discussion covered the complexities of open water racing, including drafting, feeding strategies, and the importance of sighting and turning. Haley emphasized the need for adaptability, trust, and consistent training to succeed in long-distance races. The discussion focused on the challenges and strategies for open water swimming in the U.S. compared to Europe. Key points included the need for more consistent opportunities for American athletes, the importance of training both pool and open water races, and the benefits of alternating between the two. Specific metrics mentioned were three sets of 850s, three broken 400s, and the value of practicing finishes. The conversation also highlighted the need for better organization and funding for open water events, and the potential for a centralized organizing committee to standardize the calendar and improve participation.