Top College Athletes to Meet at Orange Bowl Swim Classic in Florida Keys

KEY LARGO, Florida Keys — Hundreds of college swimmers from around the country, some who have pursued Olympic gold, are to meet and compete in a popular monthlong winter training session in Key Largo that culminates in the open-to-spectators Orange Bowl Swimming Classic Friday, Jan. 3.

The warm winter competition, one of a series of events surrounding South Florida’s Orange Bowl football playoff weekend, kicks off the New Year at the Jacobs Aquatic Center, mile marker 99.6 oceanside. The sprint-style meet features several fast-paced swimming events.

In addition to the monthlong winter training, several college teams are scheduled to compete in the Swim Classic including men’s and women’s teams from Monmouth University, University of Michigan, Colorado College, Rider University, University of Wisconsin, St. John’s University and Washington College among others.

The competition is expected to start at 10 a.m. and continue until noon. Admission is free to watch.

A post-contest awards social and dinner at the Jacobs Aquatic Center follow the meet, where spectators are welcome to interact with the swimmers and coaches.

Event information: jacobsaquaticcenter.org or 305-453-SWIM (305-453-7946)