BOWLING GREEN, Ky. - Former Western Kentucky University swimmer Sean Penhale qualified last week to represent Canada at the 2010 Pan Pacific Swimming Championships.
Penhale earned his place on the team with his performance at the Canadian Summer Nationals.
"We are extremely excited for Sean to have the opportunity to represent his country at the 2010 Pan Pacific Games," WKU swimming and diving coach Bruce Marchionda said. "It is an exciting time for Sean and the Western Kentucky swimming program. To watch all of his hard work and dedication pay off is why we are in this business."
The Calgary, Alberta native finished his four-year WKU career as the school record-holder in the 500-yard freestyle, 1000y freestyle and the 1,650y freestyle. His mark of 14 minutes, 54.14 seconds in the mile-long event represents a Sun Belt Conference record. Penhale claimed three individual Sun Belt Conference titles, winning the 1,650y freestyle in 2009 and 2010 and the 500y freestyle in 2010.
His other international competition experience includes representing Canada at the 2007 Junior Pan Pacific Championships. Penhale was the 2008 Canadian national champion in the 800m freestyle.
The 2010 Pan Pacific Swimming Championships take place in Irvine, Calif, beginning August 18.
