University of Redlands Swimmers at NCAA Division III Nationals in Texas

Seven University of Redlands athletes are at the NCAA Division III Swimming and Diving Championships in Shenandoah, Texas this week.

The U of R swimmers had to qualify in individual and team relay events, Bulldogs Swim Coach Trevor Harp said in a phone interview from Shenandoah on Tuesday.

"Last year we had two people win events, and we finished fifth overall, so we're to try to match that this year or better it," Harp said. "That's always our goal."

Swimmers representing the University of Redlands at the championships are:

Chandra Lukes - sophomore sprint freestyler from Escondido, Calif.

Chris Depew - senior individual medley and butterfly from Naperville, Illinois

Jeff Depew - sophomore individual medley and backstroke from Naperville, Illinois

David Ortyn - junior individual medley and butterfly from Bainbridge Island, Washington

Clint Freeman - junior sprint freestyler from Brentwood, Calif.

Eric LoPrete - sophomore freestyle relay (200-yard leg in 800 relay) from Beaverton, Oregon

Brent Reed - junior short sprint free relay (50-yard leg in 200 relay) from Dublin, Calif.

The competition begins Wednesday March 20 and continues through Saturday March 23 at Conroe ISD Natatorium in Shenandoah, which is outside Houston.

Harp estimated swimmers and divers from about 80 schools have qualified to take part in this year's Division III Finals.

Harp, who grew up in San Bernardino, swam four years for U of R in sprint and freestyle events. He's been coaching Bulldogs Swim teams for 5 years, and this is his third year as head coach.

For more info about the NCAA Division III Swim and Dive Finals, visit www.shenandoahtx.us/ncaachampionships. For more info about Bulldogs Swimming and Diving visit www.goredlands.com/sports/swimdive.

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