US Olympic swim trials split into 2 meets because of COVID

FILE - In this July 1, 2016, file photo, Elizabeth Beisel, left, and Missy Franklin start the women's 200-meter backstroke semifinal at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials in Omaha, Neb. The U.S. Olympic swimming trials will be split into two meets, a radical change that is designed to provide safer conditions in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. USA Swimming announced Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2021, that a Wave I meet, comprised of lower-ranked swimmers qualifying for the trials, will be held on June 4-7. The top finishers will advance to the main Wave II meet on June 13-20 to determine who represents the U.S at the Tokyo Games. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill, File)

FILE - In this Feb. 19, 2013, file photo, Mike Unger, USA Swimming assistant executive director, speaks in Greensboro, N.C. The U.S. Olympic swimming trials will be split into two meets, a radical change that is designed to provide safer conditions in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, USA Swimming announced Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2021. “Our number one priority was to find a way to host trials in the safest possible environment while also giving the athletes the best opportunity to succeed," said Mike Unger, USA Swimming's chief operating officer. (AP Photo/News & Record, Jerry Wolford, File)