Elkhart, IN – The Cumberlands men's swimming team showcased their depth and strong finish on the second day of the 2026 NAIA National Championships Thursday.  Titouan Bernot captured the 500 free national title, while the Patriots had a trio of All-American swims and closed out the day with 114 points.

Bernot opened the day clocking a 4:24.91 in 500 free prelims, which was the top-seed and a new program record.  The reigning MSC Freshman of the Year bested that time in the finals as he pulled away from the field to clock a 4:22.64 to finish atop the podium. Not only is that time a school record, it is also the second fastest in NAIA Championship history.

 

NATIONAL CHAMPION?? Titouan Bernot wins the Men's 500 Free with a best time of 4:22.64!#OneBigTeam | #LTL pic.twitter.com/RX0pJK8GuJ

— UC Patriot Swimming & Diving (@UCPatriots_Swim) March 5, 2026

Alexander Poulsen led a trio of scorers for the Patriots in the 50 free.  Poulsen clocked a 19.97 to place fifth in the 50 free capturing All-American honors.  Adam Geddis edged out Arvid Farro, 20.45 to 20.51 for 11^th place. 

In the 200 free, the quartet of Poulsen, Geddis, Farro, and Bernot, teamed up to clock a 1:20.04.  That time broke the school record 0.02 seconds.

Juan Pablo Ramirez Zapata placed 14^th in the 200 IM with a time of 1:54.64. 

The Patriots return to the water Friday, March 6^th, for the third of competition at the NAIA Championship.  Prelims are at 9 a.m. with finals beginning at 5 p.m.  Fans can catch all the action from Elkhart, IN here.
 
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