USC alumni win 3 medals so far in world swimming championships

So far, USC alumni are making a big splash at the world swimming championships.

Ous Mellouli has led the way for the Trojans, who have claimed three medals in the first three days.

Mellouli is a former Olympic and NCAA champion who has been serving as a volunteer assistant at his alma mater.

His third-place finish in the 10K open water swim Monday followed a gold in the 5K on the first day of competition in Barcelona, Spain. Not bad for a swimmer who wasn’t expecting much from 2013.

“I thought I’m not doing anything,” he said. “I’m taking the year off.”

Family and friends persuaded the 28-year-old Tunisian that he still loves to compete. As the events in Barcelona continue, Mellouli will swim in the 400 meter, 800 meter and 1500 meter freestyle.

“We will take the pool events one day at a time,” he said.

The other USC medal at the championships was earned by Haley Anderson, who graduated from USC last spring. She won the women’s 5K on Saturday.

The competition will continue through Aug. 4.

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