Former Auburn swimmer Margaret Hoelzer has been nominated for the 2007 Golden Goggles Perseverance Award, USA Swimming announced Tuesday.

The 23-time All-American swam at Auburn from 2002-05, helping the Tigers to three NCAA team championships while winning seven individual titles of her own.

Hoelzer, a native of Huntsville, Ala., earns her nomination following her gold-medal performance in the 200m backstroke at the FINA World Championships.

She is recognized for not giving up her pursuit of a 200m back title, despite being the top-ranked American female in the event since 2003. Hoelzer overcame the hurdle by setting a new American record as she won the event at the 2007 FINA World Championships.

The 2007 Golden Goggle Awards is a red-carpet event celebrating the accomplishments of top American swimmers in 2007.

The celebration will take place at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif., on Sunday, Nov. 18, and will feature U.S. Olympic swimmers as well as entertainment industry celebrities. Late night talk show host
Carson Daly will host this year’s event.

Fans can vote for the winners online at www.GoldenGoggles.com. Online voting begins Oct. 17 and will continue through November 10.