Roundup of the latest news
2013-01-08
Fabio Terrone
Phelps, Franklin, Mellouli, Risztov honoured by FINA. Arena Grand Prix Series. Ranfagni will undergo test. Hoff takes a break

With SwimNews

US swimmers Michael Phelps and Missy Franklin were named male and female World Swimmers of the Year for 2012 by FINA. The honours are considered the most prestigious in the sport.
Phelps is the most decorated Olympian of all time with 22 medals, after he won six medals at the 2012 Games, while Franklin won five medals (4 golds) and was the most decorated woman of the event.
Oussama Mellouli of Tunisia won gold in the 10km and the bronze medal in the men's 1500m freestyle, while Hungary's Eva Risztov won the women's 10km event.

Arena Grand Prix Series: USA Swimming has announced fresh details for the 2012-2013 Arena Grand Prix Series, including $150,000 in prize money.

2012-2013 Arena Grand Prix Schedule:

- Austin Grand Prix, Austin, Texas, Jan. 18-20
- Orlando Grand Prix, Orlando, Fla., Feb. 14-16
- Mesa Grand Prix, Mesa, Ariz., April 11-13
- Charlotte Ultraswim Grand Prix, Charlotte, N.C., May 9-12
- Santa Clara Grand Prix, Santa Clara, Calif. May 30-June 2

Italy: Italian backstroke ace Sebastiano Ranfagni will undergo tests tomorrow that will determine whether he will be allowed to continue to be an elite competitor. Suspended as a health precaution under Italian sports rules, Ranfagni will undergo an examination of the right ventricle of his heart. Only a certificate from doctors confirming that he is fit to train and compete will allow him back into the race pool in Italy. Ranfagni's 1:57.49 effort in the world titles final of the 200m backstroke at Shanghai 2011 remains the best ever by an Italian in a textile suit.

USA: Katie Hoff (USA), 23, has set swimming aside for a while after enrolling at Miami University. The former world champion and record holder over 400m medley last raced at the US Olympic trials. Her London 2012 campaign was derailed by a debilitating bout of food poisoning.