Mark Warkentin Wins Major US Olympic Qualifier
2-Time National Champion Mark Warkentin defines hard work, dedication and most importantly patience. The life-changing swim this weekend has redefined his long aquatic career.
This weekend in Fort Myers, Florida, Mark defied all odds and won the 2007 US Open Water Olympic Trials.
The open water Champion said, “At 27 years old and at the end of my career, this probably would have been the last race.”
But it is far from his last race. He swam side-by-side America’s best swimmers including a World Champion and Pan American Games Champion. For a majority of the 10K race, Mark patiently lingered in the back of the pack of 22 men.
“I knew the big push would come, and I was waiting and waiting because I knew it would come,” reflected Mark.
At the 8K, Mark charged in front of the herd of at least 15 swimmers. He challenged the Mission Viejo Nadadore swimmers Fran Crippen, Chad La Tourette, and UNC open-water phenom Chip Peterson to the very end. Hitting the finish line in pride, Mark won the 10K US Olympic Trials in 1:57:03.64.
“I’ve gone to every practice and my shot finally came. I can’t describe what this win feels like,” expresses Mark.
Mark is the top American heading into the Olympic finals qualifying event, 2008 World Championship in Seville. The top 10 finishers in Seville will compete at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
Mark is nominated for the 2007 Golden Goggle Perseverance Award. A recognition of Mark’s determination and success in open water swimming.
Congratulations Mark!!
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