Caldera’s Campbell McKean misses graduation and wins national championship

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Caldera High School and Bend Swim Club swimmer Campbell McKean skipped his own graduation to compete at the National Championships in Indianapolis, and it’s safe to say it was worth it.

McKean made a splash on one of the sport’s biggest stages, capturing national attention in the 50-meter breaststroke.

His 26.90-second swim wasn’t just fast - it was gold-medal fast. McKean out-touched Olympic champion Michael Andrew to take first place in the event.

With the victory, McKean earned a spot on the USA World Championship roster, officially joining the ranks of the sport's elite.

The standout swimmer trains with Bend Swim Club and is set to compete for the University of Texas next year. His resume already includes multiple OSAA state titles and records, along with a previous appearance at the USA Olympic Trials.