FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (September 16, 2026) - The Northern Arizona swimming and diving team will kick off their 2026-27 season with the 31st annual Pentathlon on Sept. 18 at the Wall Aquatic Center. The event begins at 2 p.m. MST, and spectators are welcome to attend.
The Pentathlon consists of five events: the 100-meter butterfly, 100-meter backstroke, 100-meter breaststroke, 100-meter freestyle, and the 200-meter individual medley. Points are awarded based on the swimmers' times in each race, with the highest cumulative score determining the overall winner.
Junior Kaci Kelaher will look to defend her title after winning the event last season with a score of 3,870, which marked her first career Pentathlon victory. Kelaher claimed first in three events, opening 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.
Sophomore Kat Richter placed second overall with 3,560 points. 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).
The competition serves as a key opportunity to prepare for the upcoming 2026-27 season. It allows head swimming coach Andy Johns, assistant coach George Eglesfield, and the swimmers to assess performance and make early adjustments.
Looking ahead, the Lumberjacks will continue their early season tradition with the Blue vs. Gold intrasquad meet on Oct. 2, where the team will split into two 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.
