The Pepperdine Waves women’s swim and dive team posted a split performance on day one of their tri meet at Raleigh Runnels Memorial Pool in Malibu, California, on October 23, 2026. The Waves led Seattle University 86-62 while trailing the University of Denver 109-39 after 16 events.
Ansley Halbach was a standout performer, breaking the Pepperdine program record in the 400 individual medley (IM) with a time of 4:26.39 to finish fourth. Earlier, she placed third in the 1650 freestyle with a time of 17:14.09, just over a second shy of her own program record in that event.
The Waves captured first place in the 400 freestyle relay with Aliyah Fan, Carlee Davis, Paige Easton, and Maile Sullivan touching the wall in 3:26.60. Sullivan also took second in the 50 freestyle with a time of 23.55. Her teammates Carlee Davis and Zoe Venetta rounded out the top six in fifth and sixth place, respectively.
Additional top finishes included Kate Pelot and Sophia Blietz placing fourth and fifth in the 50 backstroke, and Chloe Inouye finishing fourth in the 50 breaststroke.
Head coach Dan Marella expressed pride in the team’s performance at their home pool. “It is really special to be able to host two MPSF opponents while the sun is setting here in Malibu,” he said. “There was a lot we’re really proud of tonight, and a lot to work on. Day one was highlighted by a school record by Ansley—coming after she swam the mile. We’re looking forward to tomorrow.”
The meet continued the following day starting at 11 a.m., featuring a full slate of events including 3-meter and 1-meter diving, various relays, and individual races. The competition was streamed live on YouTube, with results available to Meet Mobile subscribers.
CSB Take
Ansley Halbach’s record-setting swim in the 400 IM highlights Pepperdine Waves women’s swim and dive team’s evolving strength within the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation. While the Waves clearly outperformed Seattle University, the deficit against the powerful Denver squad reveals areas that require growth. With a strong relay core and promising individual talent, Pepperdine aims to build on these results, focusing on greater depth and consistency throughout the season.
Source: Original report
