The 2025 U.S. Open Water National and Junior Championships wrapped up on Sunday at Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota, Florida, with 16-year-old Brinkleigh Hansen making waves by claiming her first 10km national title. Hansen, racing for Saint Petersburg Aquatics, became the first American swimmer to finish the event and secured her place on the U.S. team for the upcoming World Aquatics Championships in Singapore. Meanwhile, Claire Weinstein, who also earned a spot on Team USA, took second in the race, securing her place in the World Championships.
Racing for Saint Petersburg Aquatics, Hansen claimed her first 10K national title, becoming the first American swimmer to finish the event and securing her place on the U.S. team for the 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore.
“I’m beyond excited to have qualified for the World Championships,” said Hansen. “Winning my first 10K national title feels incredible. The race was challenging, but I stayed focused and pushed through, knowing that the opportunity to represent my country at the World Championships was within reach. This is a dream come true for me.”
Hansen’s victory marks a significant milestone in her young career, as she joins an elite group of athletes on the U.S. team. Despite the heat and demanding conditions of the race, Hansen showed exceptional endurance and determination, outpacing the competition and earning her spot at the prestigious World Aquatics Championships.
Claire Weinstein, a seasoned competitor, also earned her place on Team USA with a second-place finish in the race. Weinstein’s performance was equally impressive as she stayed consistent throughout the gruelling 10K, ensuring her qualification for the World Championships.
“It feels amazing to secure my spot for Singapore,” Weinstein commented. “This race was a real test of endurance and mental toughness. I’m so proud of how I executed the strategy I had been working on all season. Now, I’m looking forward to representing the U.S. at the World Championships and continuing to build on this experience.”
Both Hansen and Weinstein’s achievements at the national championships are a testament to their hard work and commitment to excellence. With both swimmers now officially named to the U.S. team, they will be looking ahead to the 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, where they will compete against the best in the world.
The race, which was the key qualification event for U.S. athletes seeking a place on the national team for Singapore, saw intense competition across all age groups. Hansen and Weinstein’s performances were among the standout moments of the event, as they not only showcased their individual talents and demonstrated the strength of the U.S. open water swimming programme.
Looking forward, Hansen and Weinstein are set to train hard for the World Championships, each aiming to make their mark on the international stage. Both athletes remain focused on the task ahead, knowing that the journey to the World Championships is just the beginning of their aspirations in open water swimming.
Check Out USA Swimming's Roster in Open Water for the World Aquatics Championships - Singapore 2025