PHOTO GALLEY: Swimmers race to the finish at Missouri Grand Prix

Blas Yslas of MU powers through the water during the second heat of the men's 100m breaststroke Friday at the Missouri Grand Prix at the Mizzou Aquatic Center.   ¦  WONSUK CHOI/MISSOURIAN

COLUMBIA — Though Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps was forced to pull out due to East Coast snow storms, the Missouri Grand Prix goes on.

The four-day event opens Friday and continues through Monday, Feb. 15. Columbia is the third stop of the eight-meet U.S. Grand Prix series. The overall winner receives a $20,000 grand prize.

A total of 13 U.S. National Team swimmers are entered in the meet held at the Mizzou Aquatic Center. Tickets range from $10-$15, or $60 for an all-session pass, and can be purchased at the door.