ABU DHABI, UNITED ARABE EMIRATES.  – University of Denver swimmers Daniela Alfaro and Ines Marin continued to represent their countries this past week, competing at the FINA World Swimming Championships.
The event ran from Dec. 15-21.

"I am so proud of Dani and Ines and their performance at World Championships," head coach Alicia Hicken-Franklin said. "To represent your country is a high honor and they both performed very well on the world stage. The experience of traveling and competing at this level is extremely valuable and will help them in their careers as Pioneers. I can't wait to welcome them back with the team after the holiday break."

Alfaro, representing Costa Rica, competed in the 400 freestyle, placing 33rd with a time of 4:18.79, which was first in her heat and a new personal best time. The sophomore then finished 29th in the 800 freestyle, setting another personal-best time of 8:56.29 which also was tops in her heat.

"It is always an honor for me to represent Costa Rica at such a high level," Alfaro said. "Being able to learn and grow while watching and competing against the best swimmers in the world is a pleasure and an unforgettable experience.

"For that I thank my family, friends, my national and DU teams, that support my everyday process, it wouldn't be possible without them."

Marin, competing for Chile, took 25th in the 200 freestyle after posting a 2:00.02 time, first in her heat and a new personal best. She also set a new Chilean record in the 100 freestyle with a time of 55.99, which also was a personal best.

"My experience at worlds was wonderful," Marin said. "I had 2 personal bests and the pleasure of representing my country. It was a super well-organized meet and gave me the opportunity to race the best of each country. Definitely a good experience and thankful for all the work and support of teammates, family, coaches and friends."

DU returns to action on Jan. 8 at Wyoming.

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