Mar 25, 2010 12:11:51 PM

The NCAA is delaying the start of the Division I Men's Swimming and Diving Championships by 24 hours to accommodate precautions being taken for a possible gastrointestinal illness that has affected several of the participating student-athletes.

The decision to delay the start of the meet until noon Friday came from the NCAA and was made to ensure student-athlete health and well-being. The coaches of the respective teams were informed of the decision Wednesday evening. The meet will now run through Sunday.

Eighteen student-athletes and one coach were treated Tuesday and Wednesday at the Ohio State University Medical Center and the Ohio State Sports Medicine Center for a possible gastrointestinal illness.

The NCAA, the OSU Medical Center, Ohio State University officials and the local Ohio health department are working on the issue. Among the priorities is to ensure all teams and competitors are kept informed of developments and preventive measures.

As of noon yesterday, no additional individuals involved in the championships were reported as showing signs of the illness. The championship venue and facilities have also been investigated and approved for use.

Thursday session tickets are good for Friday, Friday will be good for Saturday and Saturday's for Sunday.