Kentucky swimming & diving put up a strong fight against No. 18/19 Alabama in a closely contested dual meet at Lancaster Aquatic Center. Despite falling short, there were notable performances from several athletes. Ryan Merani emerged as the star of the meet, claiming his third individual event victory, while Grace Frericks achieved an all-time top ten swim for the Wildcats.
In the women’s competition, Kentucky came up just short, losing to Alabama with a score of 163-156. On the other hand, Alabama claimed victory in the men’s competition with a score of 175-144.
Ryan Merani was in exceptional form, winning all three of his individual events and finishing with a team-high of 27 points. Grace Frericks led the charge for the UK women, with an impressive individual point score of 26.
The final session of the meet saw some standout performances. In the 1650 freestyle, Caroline Benda placed second for the women, while Levi Sandidge took first place for the men with the third-fastest time in the country this season. Freshman Carson Hick also impressed, securing an NCAA B-standard time.
The UK women dominated the 200 backstroke, with Grace Frericks leading the way with a first-place finish. In the men’s 200 backstroke, junior Jackson Mussler secured a podium spot for the Wildcats.
Max Berg shone in the men’s 100 freestyle, achieving an NCAA B-standard time and finishing at the top. Denise Phelan and Olivia Mendenhall both achieved new B-standard times in the women’s 200 breaststroke. Lance Johnson secured second place in the men’s 200 breaststroke.
Ryan Merani continued his dominance, winning the men’s 200 butterfly comfortably. Anna Havens Rice and Marie Belli secured second and third place, respectively, in the women’s 200 butterfly.
The Kentucky divers had a successful day, with Sam Duncan winning the men’s 3-meter diving competition, and Abby Devereaux securing first place in the women’s 1-meter springboard competition. Gavin Hang and Kristy Pfaff also achieved NCAA zone cuts in their diving events.
Despite a valiant effort, the meet ended on a slightly disappointing note, with the Kentucky women finishing second in the 400 freestyle relay. However, Grace Frericks showcased her talent once again, posting the seventh-fastest 100-yard time in program history.
The Wildcats will look ahead to their next meet against rivals Louisville on January 27th at Ralph Wright Natatorium.
