Spiders Open Season with Victory Over Davidson

Friday, October 13

Hampton, Va.

5:00 p.m.

University of Richmond

152

147

Davidson - Richmond Duals

Group of swimmers jumping into the pull, 2 spiders in the picture between 2 Davidson swimmers

10/13/2023 | Women's Swimming & Diving

Hampton, Va. - The University of Richmond swimming and diving program started out its season strong on Friday with a 152-147 win against Davidson in the opening meet of the Richmond Duals.

The spiders dominated the lanes as they took first in six events:

200 free - Caitlyn Hughes (1:55.22)
100 back - Caroline Weldon (57.01)
200 fly - Erin Budde (2:09.19 - first collegiate competition)
50 free - Melissa Nwakalor (23:81 - first collegiate competition)
200 back - Caroline Weldon (2:04.91)
100 free - Caitlyn Hughes (53.14)

Richmond relied heavy on their returners as Caitlyn Hughes and Caroline Weldon each claimed two first place marks. Erin Budde and Melissa Nwakalor entered todays competition as newcomers to the Atlantic 10, impressively each earning a first place finish in their respective events.

The distance members for the Spiders competed in the 1650 free. Natalie Stuart (second place - 17:43.87) and Megan Carson (third place - 17:50.62) represented the group.

Katelyn Pennell grabbed two individual second place finishes on the evening. She took a mark of 57.32 in the 100 back and 2:06.67 in the 200 back.

Along with the first place finish in the 200 fly from Erin Budde, performances by Kaitlyn Bauer (second place - 2:09.35) and Emma Martin (third place - 2:12.04) contributed to the event sweep.

The diving segment of the day for the Spiders was highlighted by Lola Dragosavac as she finished third in the 1m (221.20) and fourth in the 3m (217.55).

Richmond will return to the pool tomorrow to take on George Mason in Day 2 of the Richmond Duals.