Beyond the Lane Lines: NKB Swimmers Make Waves in Open Water

Beyond the Lane Lines: NKB Swimmers Make Waves in Open Water
July 14, 2025

At NKB, we continually develop new ways to challenge our athletes and expand the sport. For the past few seasons, this has included developing open-water initiatives and giving swimmers a chance to test themselves in a completely new environment. It’s also a natural complement to the work we’re already doing in the pool that continues to build endurance, adaptability, and grit in ways that simply can’t be done between the lane lines.

Because let’s face it: open water swimming isn’t just another workout, it’s an experience.

You’re surrounded by nature, not concrete. You don’t always see the bottom (hello, underwater forests and curious fish). It’s unpredictable. The water can be colder, choppier, and the course isn’t painted in black lines. It’s unpredictable, but that’s also what makes it so interesting— and so much fun. There’s growth in the unknown, strength from adapting, and a whole lot of (nervous) laughs when your teammate surfaces mid-swim to say, “I think something touched my foot…” This summer, all of this has been on full display in our Introduction to Open Water program, culminating at Bring on the Bay, one of the region’s most iconic open-water events.

And as always, NKB didn’t just show up; the Mighty Barracudas put on a show.

In the 3K swim:

• Max Wechselberger-Vickers placed 🥉 3rd male overall, and of course, doing it with only the toughness and style Max can with the stroke for stroke to step for step finish!
• Oana Dondos crushed it with a 🥇1st place for 14&U female
• Lamees Elkhouli brought home a well-earned 🥉3rd place for 14&U female, showing strength and perseverance from start to finish.

In the 1.5K swim:

• Thomas Shore earned a 🥉3rd place for 14&U male, a testament to his consistency and drive.

Our performances reflected exactly why we believe so strongly in growing this space. When we train for the unexpected, our athletes are prepared to rise to any occasion.

So, to every swimmer wondering if they could handle a lake race: you can.
And, to every swimmer who thinks they’ll get spooked by seaweed or the occasional fish: you’ll be too busy crushing goals to notice.
However, for those looking to take their love for swimming further, deeper, and bolder, this is your sign to try open water.

💚🖤 The next wave is already rising. Jump in. We’ll meet you out there.