ATLANTA – The University of Virginia women’s swimming and diving team surged into first place at the 2026 ACC Championships on Wednesday, February 18, after winning three events at the McAuley Aquatic Center in Atlanta, Georgia.
Dominant Performance by the Cavaliers
The Cavalier women began the evening with a win in the 200 Free Relay, followed by individual titles in both the 500 Free and the 50 Free. Sophomore Katie Grimes repeated as the ACC Champion in the 500 Freestyle, finishing with a time of 4:33.78.
Freshman Sara Curtis claimed her first individual ACC title in the 50 Free, clocking in at 21.09. Sophomore Anna Moesch secured a bronze medal in the same event, finishing just .01 seconds behind a competitor from Louisville.
Men’s Team Sees First Podium Finish
On the men’s side, freshman Maximus Williamson achieved the team’s first podium finish of the meet, earning a silver medal in the 200 IM. Williamson challenged Aresnio Bustos of NC State throughout the final, ultimately finishing .39 seconds behind. His time of 1:40.78 broke his own school record.
The Cavalier women currently lead the team standings, while the men’s team is in 11th place. The ACC Championships continue through Saturday, with preliminary heats beginning at 9:30 a.m. And finals at 5:30 p.m. Each day. Thursday’s events will feature the 400 IM, 100 Fly, and 200 Free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What events did the Virginia women win on Wednesday?
The Virginia women won the 200 Free Relay, the 500 Free, and the 50 Free on Wednesday, February 18.
Who won silver in the men’s 200 IM?
Freshman Maximus Williamson won silver in the men’s 200 IM.
What is the schedule for the remainder of the ACC Championships?
The ACC Championships run through Saturday, February 21, with prelims at 9:30 a.m. And finals at 5:30 p.m. Each day. Thursday’s events include the 400 IM, 100 Fly, and 200 Free.
As the ACC Championships progress, what strategies do you reckon will be most important for teams hoping to qualify for the NCAA Championships?
