Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts, has transformed into the scene of the USA team swimming qualifying trials. The stadium, which recently hosted the NBA All Stars, has undergone a significant transformation to accommodate the competition pool, training pool, and seating for fans.
The first few days of the event saw over 20,000 people in attendance, witnessing world-class performances such as Gretchen Walsh’s record-breaking 100-meter butterfly and Katie Ledecky’s victory in the 400-meter freestyle.
The impressive conditioning of the area, which included the installation of temporary pools from Italy and the use of water from a nearby fire hydrant, demonstrates the feasibility of hosting similar events in other stadiums.
The preparation took several months, with the first swimmer to debut the pool being the Indianapolis Colts’ mascot, Blue.
“One of the things that makes Lucas Oil Stadium so special is its ability to transform and host the world’s most important and largest events, no matter what is required on the playing field,” said Eric Neuburger, director of the Lucas Oil Stadium. “Now, the emerald green of the grass has given way to a diamond blue of water.”