‘I’m the hunted’: Summer McIntosh’s record-breaking week puts competitors on notice ahead of worlds

At just 18 years old, it would be easy for Summer McIntosh to let all the spotlight, headlines, and attention get to her head. However, she is anything but typical. Coming off an unforgettable Canadian swimming trials in Victoria, McIntosh made history by breaking three world records and setting Canadian records in two other events, all of which were personal bests for her.

Throughout the meet, McIntosh displayed not only her incredible talent but also her humility and kindness. After each victory ceremony, where she received a gold medal and a stuffed animal, she made her way over to young kids in the stands. Without hesitation, she would throw her stuffy into the crowd and then give her gold medal away to a lucky child, spreading joy and inspiration in the process.

This act of generosity reflects McIntosh’s character and values. Despite her monumental achievements, she remains grounded and focused on the bigger picture. As she looks ahead to the world championships in Singapore, where she will be one of 26 swimmers representing Canada, McIntosh is determined to continue her pursuit of excellence.

Having trained under the guidance of French Olympic coach Fred Vergnoux, McIntosh credits him for much of her success. Their partnership has been instrumental in her growth as a swimmer, pushing her to new heights and teaching her valuable lessons along the way.

As McIntosh prepares to compete against the world’s best swimmers, including the legendary Katie Ledecky, she is determined to cement her place among the sport’s greats. With her sights set on the L.A. 2028 Olympics and her goal of winning five gold medals, McIntosh is ready to embrace the challenges ahead.

Despite the overwhelming praise and comparisons to swimming legends like Michael Phelps and Ledecky, McIntosh remains humble and grateful for the support of her fellow Canadians. She is determined to make her country proud and inspire the next generation of swimmers.

As McIntosh continues to break barriers and set new records, she is a shining example of dedication, perseverance, and sportsmanship. With her eyes set on the future, she is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the world of swimming and beyond.