BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - The CSU Bakersfield men's swimming and diving team started the season on a winning note on Saturday, defeating Seattle 153-135 in MSPF action at the Hillman Aquatic Center.

While the 'Runners held the lead for most of the meet, the Redhawks made a late surge to make things interesting and even took first place in the 400 free relay in the final event of the day, but CSUB sealed the win with second and third-place finishes in the event. The 'Runners were also aided by critical diving points from 1- and 3-meter winner Troy Neklason (So., Seattle, Wash., Aviation HS) and runner-up Liam Acosta (Jr., Oceanside, Calif., Palomar College).

CSUB Director of Swimming Chris Hansen was especially pleased with Joao Foresto (R-Sr., Marilia, Sao Paulo, Brazil, Cristol Rei HS) and Fran Cverle (Jr., Zagreb, Croatia, Limestone College).

"Without diving, we would have been in trouble," Hansen said. "I think this was a real wakeup call for all of our freshmen. Joao and Fran really stepped up and helped the team win today."

Alex Daneke (R-Sr., Lodi, Calif., UC Davis) was tops in the 100-yard back (51.36) and the 100 fly (51.20). Foresto took first place in the 100 free (46.84). Mitchell Huxhold (So., Escondido, Calif., San Pasqual HS) won the 1,000 free (9:36.53), Gabriel Bertrand (So., Tibro, Sweden, Nykopingssimg Gymnasium) won the 200 free (1:41.88), and Mitch Wurm (Sr., Mesa, Ariz., Dobson HS) placed first in the 50 free (21.08)

CSUB will be back on action on Oct. 27 with a home meet against Pacific. The meet is slated to begin at 1 p.m.

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