Redlands-Based Swimmers Training for Olympics Chances in Loma Linda

Competitive swimmers from Redlands are training at Loma Linda University Drayson Aquatic Center in hopes of reaching the 2012 London Olympics, a university spokesman announced Tuesday.

"Anytime I'm in the pool, it's just beneficial for my training," Joey Hale, 22, of Redlands said.

Hale is preparing for the Olympic trials in Omaha, Nebraska, at the end of this month, according to Herbert Atienza of Loma Linda University. Hale hopes to compete in London for Team USA in the 50- and 100-meter freestyle events.

Hale's teammate at , Valeriy Dymo, won the silver medal in the men's 100-meter breaststroke at the European Swimming Championships a few weeks ago, and he will represent Ukraine in the Olympics, Atienza said.

In addition, Yulduz Kuchkarova, of Redlands, hopes to represent her home nation Uzbekistan in London, Atienza said.

Training time at Drayson Aquatic Center is crucial for local swimmers aiming for the Olympics, Martin Gregoire, who coaches Hale, Dymo and Kuchkarova, told Atienza.

"It's a great facility and we have access to the pool during the daytime, which is perfect," Gregoire said.

For more information about the 2012 London Olympics, visit www.london2012.com