Quinn Weygandt ’26, a sophomore from Madison, WI, had a record-breaking weekend at Swarthmore swimming’s home opener against Salisbury University and Ursinus College.
Weygandt proved her dominance in several events. She set a Swarthmore program record and Centennial Conference record in the 200-meter IM with a first-place time of 2:03.68, which beats the NCAA B-Cut mark. Weygandt also set a program record, conference record, and Ware Pool record in the 400-meter IM with a time of 4:25.38. She won by over half a pool length, beating the NCAA B-Cut mark and ranking fifth in the nation in the event.
The Centennial Conference Swimmer of the Week compounded her success with a first-place finish in the 200-meter fly, clocking a time of 2:04.41 – enough to tally another NCAA B-Cut. The sophomore also participated in the 800-meter free relay, which earned first place and set a pool record with a time of 7:41.46.
Weygandt’s success helped Swarthmore women’s swimming secure a 207-125 victory over Salisbury and a 263-65 victory over Ursinus: the program’s 29th consecutive conference victory and 25th straight dual-meet victory dating back to the 2018-2019 season.
Sophia Vesely: Can you tell us about the team’s success this weekend?
Quinn Weygandt: The team had an incredibly successful weekend. We were able to achieve many pool records, team records, and NCAA B-Cuts. This success stems from a lot of hard work that we have already put into the season. And it comes from the environment that we create on deck. This weekend, we had an amazing atmosphere. Everyone was loud and excited to race. We also had a ton of support from family, friends, and some fabulous alumni.
SV: How did it feel to break two conference records, two program records, and one Ware Pool record?
QW: It was very surreal. A lot of credit is due to my teammates, who are so positive and motivating. I really would not be where I am without them. I’m just grateful to have swum so fast alongside them, so we could celebrate it together.
SV: How did it feel to tally three NCAA B-cuts? What does this mean for the postseason?
QW: This is quite exciting! It gives me more confidence as we pass the halfway mark of our season. Our relays this weekend were very impressive and achieved many B-Cuts too, which is helping us work towards our team goal of sending as many people to the NCAA meet as possible.
SV: What are some of the team’s goals for the rest of the season?
QW: We are hoping to continue our undefeated dual meet streak, win our Centennial Conference meet, and send as many people to the NCAA championship swim meet as possible. Furthermore, we are always working to have a supportive and inclusive team.
SV: What are some of your personal goals for the season?
QW: I would love to make it to NCAA’s again and continue to drop time. My main goal is to do whatever is needed to help reach our team goals, so we can be as successful as possible, whether that is in the pool, on deck, or outside of the swimming environment.
SV: Do you have any pre- or post-game rituals?
QW: When I am behind the blocks, I splash myself with water twice and typically do the same stretches before every race.
SV: Why did you choose Swarthmore, and what are you studying?
QW: I chose Swarthmore for many reasons, including the academic rigor, collaborative environment, and exceptional athletics. I am studying Political Science, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE).
SV: What is your favorite Dining Center bar?
QW: I like the spice bar.
