The Greensboro Aquatic Center (GAC) has been selected to host the YMCA National Short Course Swimming Championship in 2027, 2028, and 2029. The annual event is the nation’s top youth swimming competition.
“As the YMCA celebrates 175 years of strengthening communities, events like this reflect the powerful role sports have always played in bringing people together,” said Meredith Griffin, Director of Sports and Competitive Events Strategy at YMCA of the USA. “The Greensboro Aquatic Center has become a cornerstone for YMCA swimming, where young athletes not only compete at the highest level, but also build confidence, character, and a sense of belonging that stays with them long after they leave the pool. We’re honored to continue this long-standing partnership and tradition of excellence.”
The GAC is currently hosting the 2026 YMCA National Short Course National Swimming Championship through Friday, marking the 13th time the venue has hosted this prestigious annual event. The 2026 Championship features more than 1,200 from more than 180 Ys across the country and is generating an estimated $3.9 million in economic impact (source: Greensboro Convention & Visitors Bureau).
“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to continue to build on the long term and highly successful relationship we have built with YMCA of the USA,” said GAC manager David Hoover. “We look forward to continuing to provide an elite experience for the swimmers, coaches and YMCA officials.”
The 2027-2029 YMCA Short Course National Swimming Championships will be hosted by the Greensboro Aquatic Center in cooperation with the Greensboro Area Convention & Visitors Bureau and Greensboro Sports Foundation.
In addition to the athletes, there are an additional 5,000 parents, coaches, and volunteers who attend in support of the event each year.
“Hosting elite national youth swimming championships at the GAC is a critical component of the tremendous impact of sports tourism in our area,” said Richard Beard, president of the Greensboro Sports Foundation. “Our relationship with the YMCA has been a tremendous partnership for all involved and we’re excited to serve as host for their National Short Course Swimming Championship for the next three years.”
The Greensboro Area Convention & Visitors Bureau estimates the 2027-2029 Championships will generate a total of more than $12.5 million in economic impact.
“We are excited to extend our partnership with the YMCA for the National Short Course Swimming Championship for another three years,” said Greensboro Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Chief Executive Officer Anthony Cordo. “This long-term partnership allows us to continue bringing high-profile youth athletic competitions to Greensboro that contribute to the livelihood of our city. Each event brings new visitors that generate increased revenue for our airport, hotels, small businesses, and attractions, directly supporting job opportunities, community investment, and quality of life for our local residents.”