Mark your calendars for June 28-July 5 when the Esynchro Age Groups Championships come to the Stephen C. O'Connell Center in Gainesville, Fla.

The world's largest event with nearly 1,100 athletes from more than 70 clubs returns to the Sunshine State. Gainesville first hosted the Age Group Championships in 1999.

On hand for the national grassroots competition will be up-and-coming junior athletes representing the nation's top-rated clubs, along with several reigning age group national champions. Swimmers will be competing for titles in the solo, duet, trio and team events in four different age groups: 12-13, 14-15, 16-17 and 18-19.

"The City of Gainesville and Alachua County are thrilled to host this prestigious USA Synchro event once again," said local meet manager Matt Dunn. "We're looking forward to not only the economic impact the event will have on our community, but also the memories we'll provide the young athletes competing."

Florida is home to 2003 World Championship and Pan American Team member, Katie Norris. Norris hails from Tallahasee, Fla. and swam for the Tallahasee Serinas.

Florida clubs expected to participate include the Dolphinettes of Miami, Lakeland YMCA Flamingo Synchro, Suncoast Waterworks, Tallahassee Serinas, Tampa Bay Synchrays, Team Florida and Team Orlando Loreleis. Lakeland, Tallahasee, and Tampa Bay placed various routines in finals at the 2002 Championships.

The event lasts eight days and carries with it an estimated economic impact of more than $1.3 million. Past event hosts include Seattle in 2002, Syracuse, N.Y. in 2001, and Oakland, Calif. in 2000.

Competition begins at 8 a.m. on most days. The Stephen C. O'Connell Center is located on the campus of the University of Florida.