Bathala to Compete at Junior Pan Pacific Championships

A graphic announcing that Ethan Bethala will represent the United States at the Junior Pan Pacific Championships

Bathala to Compete at Junior Pan Pacific Championships

8/17/2026 7:00:00 AM | Swimming & Diving

DURHAM, N.C. – Following a first-place finish in the 18U 50m backstroke at the U.S. Swimming Toyota National Championships, incoming freshman Ethan Bathala will represent the United States at the 2026 Junior Pan Pacific Championships this Monday-Wednesday in Vancouver.

Bathala, a native of Jacksonville, Florida, posted an impressive time of 25.51 in the 50m backstroke. The Junior Pan Pacific Championships is an international swimming competition featuring athletes aged 18 and under from non-European nations.

Bathala is set to compete in the men's backstroke events, with his first event being the 100m backstroke prelims on Monday. He will also take part in the 50m prelim on Tuesday and the 200m prelim on Wednesday. All three prelims are in the first session of each day, beginning at 12 p.m., while the finals will take place during the second session, which begins at 8 p.m.

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