Unveiling the Prize Money Details for the 2026 Pro Swim Series - Westmont
The 2026 Pro Swim Series is set to make a splash in Westmont, Illinois, this weekend, but there's more to this event than meets the eye. While it may not have the same star power as the NCAA Championships, the Westmont stop is still a significant competition with a unique twist: a double prize money offer for select races.
The Pro Swim Series is known for its exciting races and generous rewards, but the Westmont edition takes it a step further. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know about the prize money ahead of the event:
Prize Money Structure
The prize money for the 2026 Pro Swim Series is structured as follows:
Standard Events:
- 1st place: $1,500
- 2nd place: $1,000
- 3rd place: $500
Super Events:
At each stop, a selection of races will have their prize money doubled. This means:
- 1st place: $3,000
- 2nd place: $1,000
- 3rd place: $500
Westmont's Unique Offering
In Westmont, the men's 800-meter freestyle and all eight 100-meter stroke races will be swum as prelims/finals, following the Olympic or World Championship format. This means more races and potentially more opportunities to win big.
Comparison with Austin
The Austin stop of the Pro Swim Series had a different prize money distribution, with 11 races offering double the prize money. Westmont, on the other hand, has a more straightforward structure, with the potential for bigger rewards in select events.
Big Names, Big Rewards
The double prize money has attracted some of the world's best swimmers, including Bobby Finke, Daniel Wiffen, and Sam Short, who will all compete in the men's 800-meter freestyle. This race, in particular, promises to be a thrilling spectacle.
Event Schedule and Monetary Increases
The Pro Swim Series schedule has shifted, resulting in four full days of racing with prelims and finals sessions. Here's a breakdown of the monetary increases for each stop:
Pro Swim Series Austin (January 14-17):
- Women's 800 freestyle: Prelims/final
- 50 butterfly, 50 backstroke, 50 breaststroke, 50 freestyle, and 200 IM: Prelims/semifinals/final
- Prize money increase to $3,000 for winners of all 50s, the 200 IM, and the women's 800 freestyle
Pro Swim Series Westmont (March 4-7):
- Men's 800 freestyle: Prelims/final
- All 100s: Prelims/semifinals/final
- Prize money increase to $3,000 for winners of the 100s and men's 800 freestyle
Pro Swim Series Sacramento (May 20-23):
- Women's 1500 freestyle: Prelim/final
- 200 butterfly, 200 backstroke, 200 breaststroke, and 200 freestyle: Prelims/semifinals/final
- Prize money increase to $3,000 for winners of the 200 butterfly, 200 backstroke, 200 breaststroke, 200 freestyle, and women's 1500 freestyle
Pro Swim Series Indianapolis (June 17-20):
- Men's 1500 freestyle: Prelims/final
- Prize money increase to $3,000 for winners of the 400 IM, 400 freestyle, and men's 1500 freestyle
The Bottom Line
The 2026 Pro Swim Series in Westmont offers a unique opportunity for swimmers to compete for substantial prize money in a variety of events. With the added attraction of double prize money in select races, this event is sure to be a highlight for swimming enthusiasts. So, mark your calendars and get ready for an exciting weekend of swimming action!
