College National Open Water Championships

The College National Open Water Championships will take place December 12, 2026, at Nathan Benderson Park, welcoming nearly 300 collegiate swimmers representing approximately 40 institutions across NCAA Divisions I, II, III and the NAIA. Hosted by the College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association of America (CSCAA) and presented by Kiefer, the championship returns to Sarasota County for its second consecutive year, offering collegiate athletes a unique opportunity to compete outside the traditional pool setting. Featuring high-level competition, including swimmers with USA Swimming National Team experience, the event serves as a USA Swimming-approved qualifier for the USA Swimming Open Water National and Junior National Championships, which Sarasota County hosts annually each spring. The top five male and female finishers will earn invitations to compete in the USA Swimming 5K Open Water Championships. Approximately 120 spectators and 150 hotel room nights are anticipated, further contributing to the event's sports tourism impact. The championship also reflects the growing partnership between Visit Sarasota County and the CSCAA, which will continue in spring 2027 when Sarasota welcomes the association's Annual Coaches Meetings, further strengthening the destination's reputation as a premier host for collegiate swimming events and industry gatherings.