Peirsols sparkle in Japan

YOKOHAMA, Japan -- Aaron Peirsol, the 200-meter backstroke

world-record holder and former Newport Harbor High standout, captured

his second gold medal for the U.S. team in the Pan Pacific Swimming

Championships Wednesday.

His younger sister, Hayley, who will be a senior at Newport Harbor

High, also medaled. She earned a bronze medal, after finishing in

8:32.27 in the 800 freestyle.

Aaron Peirsol, who is bound for the University of Texas, won the

200 backstroke (1:56.88), which also resulted in his MVP award for

the night. He won the 100 back Monday in 54.22. And, he helped Team

USA maintain its gold medal lead, 16-9, over the Australians.

The medal winners will return home after the meet concludes today.