June 11, 2007

SEVILLE, Spain - Virginia swimming alumnus Fran Crippen ('06) finished fourth at the FINA 10K Marathon Swimming World Cup last weekend in Seville, Spain. Crippen was a 13-time All-American during his career at Virginia (2003-06).

Crippen's fourth-place finish was the best by an American at the meet. He finished ahead of 10K national champion Chip Peterson, who was fifth. It marked the first time in Peterson's career that he had beaten by a fellow American in the 10K event.

"Fran only began swimming open water events late last summer at the Pan Pacific Championships, where he earned the silver medal," Virginia head coach Mark Bernardino said. "His learning curve has been outstanding. To have reached this level of excellence in such a short period of time is amazing. Each of the top 10 swimmers in this dress rehearsal for next year's World Championship is highly acclaimed in this specific event. Fran has now thrust himself into this elite group and is a prime contender for next year's World Championship swim and a berth on the USA Olympic team."