HOUSTON,TX- The St. Thomas Swim team faced a challenge as they competed against Division I Rice University. Despite the tough competition, the Celts rose to the occasion, delivering remarkable performances with several season and lifetime bests.

Leading the way for the men, Oscar Mayorga impressed in the 100-yard butterfly, clocking a lifetime-best 55.08 to take first among the Celts. He also shone in the mixed 50-yard butterfly, finishing second overall with a swift 25.45. Charles Wallace continued his standout season, narrowly missing first place in the mixed 50-yard freestyle with a time of 22.91, while also posting a solid 50.00 in the 100-yard freestyle. Austin Brister proved dominant in breaststroke events, securing first place in the 100-yard breaststroke with a 1:03.08 and showing endurance in the 200-yard breaststroke with a 2:19.41.

On the women's side, Valentina Garcia-Lara and Kelsy Elgar gave strong performances in their respective events. Garcia-Lara held her own in the mixed 50-yard freestyle with a time of 27.44, while Elgar battled through the mixed 50-yard backstroke, finishing in 31.86. Ava Verret added to the Celts' depth, competing fiercely in the mixed 50-yard breaststroke.

In the relays, UST showcased teamwork and resilience. The men's team of Brister, Wallace, Mayorga, and Luke Newman combined for stellar efforts across various events. Newman was a standout in freestyle, tying for fourth in the 100-yard freestyle with a time of 52.92.

Though Rice University brought its Division I depth, the Celts demonstrated their ability to compete at a high level.

Up Next:
The Celts will regroup and prepare for their biggest test of the season at the SCAC Swimming Championships in Garland, Texas, from February 12-15. Follow all the action on ustcelts.com and the UST Swimming Instagram.