Lynchburg, Va. - The William Peace University swim program opened its 2025–26 season on Saturday at Randolph College, competing against Randolph, Hollins, and Gallaudet. The meet marked the first under new head coach Rowan Poppen-Eagan, as the Pacers began a new chapter.
The Pacers delivered several strong individual and relay performances to set the tone for the season. Sophomore standout Kaitlyn Kucera led the women's team with first-place finishes in the 200-yard freestyle (2:07.50) and 100-yard breaststroke (1:19.63).
Freshman Charlize DeLair captured first in the 100-yard butterfly (1:06.63) and added a runner-up finish in the 50-yard freestyle (27.56).
On the men's side, Senior Jack Lancaster earned second in both the 200-yard freestyle (1:54.25) and 100-yard freestyle (51.12). Kadin Rayford collected first place in the men's 50 yard freestyle with a time of 22.87. The men's 200 medley relay team (Cormac Davis, Zack Radka, Lancaster, Kadin Rayford) placed second overall with a time of 1:48.89.
The women's 200 freestyle relay team (Elise Langer, Kylie McWhorter, DeLair, Kucera) also finished second at 1:57.91.
The Pacers are back in action next friday as they head to Sweet Briar College for another tri-match.