Claire Curzan Shatters NCAA and American Records in 200 Backstroke

UVA swimmer clocks stunning time of 1:46.09 at ACC Championships

Apr. 13, 2026 at 8:58am

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An extreme close-up of a swimmer's body in motion, with vibrant neon brushstrokes capturing the raw energy and fluidity of the athlete's movements as they slice through the water.A record-breaking display of power and grace as Claire Curzan dominates the pool with her stunning 200-meter backstroke performance.University of Virginia Today

In a stunning display of aquatic prowess, Claire Curzan of the University of Virginia shattered her own NCAA and American records in the 200-meter backstroke at the 2026 Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Championships, clocking a remarkable time of 1:46.09.

Why it matters

Curzan's performance not only solidifies her dominance in collegiate swimming but also sets a new benchmark for the sport. Her ability to consistently improve and break her own records demonstrates her exceptional skill and training, making her a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming NCAA Championships.

The details

Curzan's new time of 1:46.09 not only broke her own NCAA record but also set a new American record, previously held by Curzan herself. She also set new ACC and ACC Championship records, improving upon her previous marks. Curzan led the race from start to finish, leaving her competitors far behind.

  • The 2026 Atlantic Coast Conference Championships witnessed Curzan's record-breaking performance.
  • Curzan's previous NCAA record of 1:46.82 was set at the 2025 NCAA Championships.

The players

Claire Curzan

A swimmer representing the University of Virginia who has consistently broken her own records in the 200-meter backstroke.

Regan Smith

The previous holder of the pool record at the McAuley Aquatic Center, with a time of 1:47.76 in the 200-meter backstroke.

Maggie Wanezek

A swimmer from the University of Wisconsin who currently has the second-fastest time in the NCAA this season, with a time of 1:48.39 in the 200-meter backstroke.

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What’s next

Curzan now sets her sights on defending her NCAA title, where her time of 1:46.09 currently stands as the fastest in the NCAA this season. Wisconsin's Maggie Wanezek, with a time of 1:48.39, will be one of the swimmers looking to challenge Curzan's supremacy.

The takeaway

Curzan's record-breaking performance in the 200-meter backstroke showcases the raw power and grace of a champion swimmer, setting a new benchmark for the sport and solidifying her dominance in collegiate swimming.