FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (Sept. 19, 2025) – The Northern Arizona swimming and diving team kicked off the 2025-26 season with the 30th annual Pentathlon. The meet featured five events, with each swimmer awarded points based on their times. The winner was crowned by the highest cumulative total.
"A lot of great racing and effort today," head coach Andy Johns said. "I am really pleased with how the day went, and it is a great starting point for us to build on and get better. I love the attitude they bring to every practice. We are a fairly young team with a lot of new talent to develop and step up into spots vacated by an amazing graduated senior class from last year. It's a great opportunity for everyone to really step up."
Sophomore Kaci Kelaher claimed the title with 3,870 points, taking first place in three events. She opened with a 2:23.93 in the 200-meter IM, followed by a 1:03.54 in the 100-meter butterfly and a 1:00.35 in the 100-meter freestyle. Kelaher also finished third in the 100-meter backstroke (1:08.59) and fifth in the 100-meter breaststroke (1:18.87).
"It feels really good, and I am very proud of myself," Kelaher said. "I was a little stressed going into it with the pressure of coming second last year, but I am really happy with my strong performance today. I learned from last year not to be scared or hold back, and to make sure to warm down between each event."
Newcomer and true freshman Kat Richter tallied 3,560 points for second place overall. She won the 100-meter backstroke in 1:07.10, took third in the 200-meter IM (2:28.35), and finished fourth in both the 100-meter butterfly (1:07.36) and 100-meter breaststroke (1:18.75). Her 1:02.89 in the 100-meter freestyle was good for sixth.
Senior Cydnie Perkins placed third overall with 3,290 points. She won the 100-meter breaststroke (1:13.40) and finished second in the 200-meter IM (2:25.97).
The Pentathlon is an annual meet that plays a key role in preparing Northern Arizona for the season ahead. It provides an opportunity for coaches and swimmers to evaluate progress and make adjustments before regular competition begins.
Up next, the Lumberjacks will continue their early-season tradition with the Blue vs. Gold intrasquad meet on Oct. 3, where the team will split into two squads for a friendly competition.
Stay up to date with the Northern Arizona women's swimming and diving team by following the Lumberjacks on Instagram and X.
