Results

FUKUOKA, Japan – The 2023 World Aquatics Open Water Championships finished Thursday at the Seaside Momochi Beach Park in Fukuoka, Japan. Joey Tepper, Brennan Gravley, Mariah Denigan and Katie Grimes competed in the mixed 4x1500m relay, placing ninth in the field of 21 teams.

Mixed 4x1500m – FINAL 
Ninth – USA, 1:13:58.60 
   Joey Tepper (Egg Harbor Township, N.J./University of Tennessee), 17:29.80 
   Brennan Gravley (Las Vegas, Nev./University of Florida), 34:52.90 
   Mariah Denigan (Walton, Ky./Indiana University), 53:56.70 
   Katie Grimes (Las Vegas, Nev./Sandpipers of Nevada), 1:13:58.60 

Tepper on leading off the relay: “Leading off a relay is such a fun role, and I really just focused on setting Brennan (Gravley) up for success.” 

Gravley on his performance: “My job going into the race is to get to the front (swimmer) as quickly as I can and not look back. We went two men then two women to shotgun the relay right off the front and try to get our (women) in some clean water. I think we did that, and I was able to hold off most of the men behind me. I really enjoy the relay; it’s really special to represent your country as a group and swim for something bigger than yourself. I really relish in that opportunity.”  

Denigan on her role as third leg: “The third leg is a different role in the relay than I am used to. I took the approach of trying to keep the lead and drafting off any (men) that came up from behind. Ultimately, it was a fun race, and I am excited for the future of this relay team. Any relay for Team USA is an honor to be part of.” 
 
Grimes on closing the relay: “I really just tried to finish our relay off strong. All of us put our best foot forward and we went with what was the best strategy compared to the rest of the field. (The competition is) so strong and so much older and more experienced in this particular race than we are. I tried to do my part and do the best I could for my team.” 

Pool competition starts Sunday, July 23 with prelims at 10:30 a.m. and finals at 8 p.m. local time (in the U.S.: Saturday at 9:30 a.m. ET and Sunday 7 a.m. ET). 

2023 World Aquatics Open Water Medal Table