Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The World Junior Open Water Championships in Argentina begin on September 3, with athletes participating in team huddles, chants, and final training sessions. The opening race will be the Boys 18-19 years 10km event, followed by the girls’ competition at midday.
Brinkleigh Hansen, 16, from the USA, described junior competitions as her favorite and discussed gaining confidence from senior events. Hansen highlighted recent achievements, including a silver medal in the 10km at the USA Swimming Open Water National Championships and a top-ten finish at the Pan Pacific Open Water Swimming Championships. Despite sustaining a concussion two weeks ago that affected her training, she expressed excitement about racing again and praised the venue. Hansen will compete in the 7.5km and 3km Knockout Sprint events during the championships.
Brinkleigh is one of three Hansen siblings participating this week: her older sister Karrington will compete in the Girls 18-19 years 10km, and her younger brother Sawyer in the Boys 14-15 years 5km. She emphasized the honor of representing Team USA alongside family and friends.
French competitor Ethan Parker, who moved into senior competition this year, was recently recognized as the Men’s Junior Overall World Cup Leader for 2026. Parker, who won bronze and gold at the European Junior Open Water Championships, expressed readiness and enthusiasm for racing the 10km event after arriving in Argentina a week ahead of the competition.
Athletes have used the final training day to explore the course and adjust their tactics, building anticipation for the four-day competition.