Robison Claims Gold at World University Games

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BELGRADE, Serbia – Virginia junior swimmer Scot Robison claimed gold as part of the United States 400-meter freestyle relay team at the World University Games over the weekend.

The United States touched in 3:14.17, setting a World University Games record, to finish in front of second-place Italy (3:16.07) and third-place France (3:16.57). Robison, a native of Charlotte, N.C., swam anchor and clocked a time of 48.42.

Virginia mentor Mark Bernardino is also serving as the head men’s coach for the U.S. at the World University Games.

“It is a great thrill to see Scot get off to such a wonderful start at his first international meet,” Bernardino said. “He anchored the USA team to WUG record in pulling away from a talented Italian team. It was a great way to end the first session of swimming and a real boost to team morale heading into second day of competition. He swam a lifetime best on anchor leg and was really excited and honored to have represented his country and win his first medal in competition.”

Swimming competition at the 25th World University Games runs through July 11. On Monday, both Robison and sophomore David Karasek will swim in the prelims of the 200-meter freestyle.

“The men’s competition is very stiff and there are great athletes in all events,” Bernardino continued. “Today, Scot swims in his first individual race, so I am very excited and ready to see how he handles the pressures and intensity of racing in this environment. The first step is to get to semifinals and move forward from there. He is a little tired from last night, but he will have to deal with fatigue in the best manner possible.

“The men’s team and women’s team are full of great kids. They have really bonded well and are swimming with a lot of pride for their country. The team morale is high and the effort levels of swimmers on behalf of their country, and each other, is admirable.”

For more information, visit the official website of the 2009 World University Games.