ORANGE, Calif. – The Fresno Pacific swim and dive teams turned in a strong showing against Occidental, posting several event wins, podium finishes, and standout relay performances in a competitive dual meet. The men's team defeated the visiting Tigers 158-95, whereas the women put up a valiant fight and fell short four points, 123-127.

"Even though it was a Monday meet which is kind of unusual, the swimmers still showed up and were ready to swim," said head coach Ray Eggert. "After the long break it was great to get back in the groove of things and get some races in as soon as possible. Looking forward to a great finish to the season."

The Sunbirds made an early statement in the relays, as Fresno Pacific women's "A" captured first place in the 200 Medley Relay with a time of 1:53.59, while the "B" squad followed closely in third (1:58.78). FPU continued its relay success in the 200 Freestyle Relay, with the men's "A" team coming second with a time of 1:38.82.

As a team, the Sunbird men collected 10 first-place finishes and swept through several events. On the men's side, Oskar Herbut delivered a dominant swim in the distance events, winning the 1000 Freestyle with a time of 10:56.73 and a personal best in the 50 Free (24.05), placing fourth overall. Olivier Petre added another victory for the Sunbirds, touching first in the 200 Freestyle at 1:44.55, while Enzo Perragine followed in third (1:53.96). Key returning player Perragine hit a season-best in the 100 Free with a time of 50.69, pushing the limits in the water. Tony Montes impressed in the 100 Butterfly, winning the event with a time of 54.65 after splitting 26.17 at the halfway mark. Another key contributer to the win was August Ottesen who sealed three first-place placements for the Sunbirds in the 50 Free (21.72), 100 Fly (52.36), and with the split in the 400 Freestyle Relay (47.21).

The Fresno Pacific women also shined in multiple events. Overall, they collected nine first place finishes and two silver placements. Kaylin Mutoli claimed first place in the 200 Individual Medley, posting a winning time of 2:09.15 and capturing a season-best as well as another first place finish in the 200 Free (2:09.15). Mia Buller was another swimmer who surpassed her season best and went 59.03 in the 100 Free. In the sprint freestyle events, Charlotte Wilbers earned the top spot in the 100 Freestyle with a time of 1:03.59, showcasing strong closing speed. Continuing her dominant presence this season, Jillian Lambert contributed the highest points after she secured four first-place finishes in the 50 Free, 100 Free, and was the anchor in the 200 Medley Relay and 400 Free Relay.

Distance swimmers made their mark as well, with Cara Mohle placing third in the 1000 Freestyle (12:19.21), followed closely by teammates Olivia Correa (12:33.14) and Anja Gunnsteinsdottir (12:36.30), giving Fresno Pacific three top-five finishes in the event.

Overall, the Sunbirds displayed depth and consistency across events, combining relay victories with individual wins and podium finishes. Fresno Pacific continues to build momentum as the season progresses, fueled by balanced performances from both the men's and women's squads.

"We're excited to get back to work, prepare for conference, and finish the home season strong by celebrating our seniors at their final home meet this Saturday," said assistant coach Rebeca Bribiesca Spears.
 

NEXT UP: The Sunbirds compete in the final home meet of the season on Saturday, January 10th at 12 pm. The FPU swim and dive team will be celebrating its senior class before the matchup versus Santa Cruz (location will be announced later this week).

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