Julian Iturbe

QUICK STATS

  • Birthday: December 5, 1999
  • Hometown: Caracas, Venezuela
  • Coaches: Dan Gelderloos, Chris Sullivan
  • College: Calvin University, Grand Rapids, MI

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

  • South American Open Water Champion 
  • 2016 Junior Open Water World Cup 
  • 15-Time Collegiate All American 
  • Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association Record Holder
Request Julian for a swim camp!

EXPERIENCE

Julian Itrurbe is a versatile swimmer who has had success in both open water and pool short course swimming. Julian advises young athletes to show up, give their best, and be curious. “Curiosity is really important. It means we are excited about what we are doing and we want to ask the questions, big and small, that can have an impact on our swimming.” He stresses that basic questions about body positioning should be asked throughout one’s career. “Swimming is an evolving sport and the mechanics can change as you change. As your body changes, your stroke changes, so ask about where to put your hands, your head, your feet.” No question is too small, and the answer may help a swimmer improve their performance.

 Julian’s success in open water came from trying something outside his comfort zone. He says, “When I was a young age group swimmer, I was an alright swimmer. My sister, who is three years older, was a really good open water swimmer, so I started perusing the same path she had taken. It opened up opportunities for me and I became one of the top national open water swimmers because I was willing to try something that others were not.” He tells camp participants this story so that they don’t limit themselves to a narrow set of events and encourages them to try all events, as they may uncover a strength they don’t know they have.

Thanks to his experience with different swimming formats, Julian says, “I have the technical and emotional experience to give your swimmer an edge on their competition. I want to pass down the knowledge I’ve gained from my peers and coaches, as well as my love for swimming, to the next generation of athletes.”

Will Cumberland
Scott Colby