Summer McIntosh sets world record in 400 freestyle

BUDAPEST, Hungary – Summer McIntosh Sets World Record in 400m Freestyle at World Short-Course Championships

Canadian swimmer Summer McIntosh made waves at the world short-course swimming championships in Budapest by clinching gold in the women’s 400-metre freestyle event and setting a new world record in the process.

The 18-year-old prodigy from Toronto clocked an impressive time of three minutes and 50.25 seconds, leaving her competitors in the wake. Australia’s Lani Pallister finished in second place with a time of 3:53.73, while Mary-Sophie Harvey from Trois-Rivieres, Que., secured the bronze medal in 3:54.88, marking her first international podium finish.

McIntosh’s stellar performance in Budapest adds to her already remarkable year, where she shone at the 2024 Paris Olympics by claiming three gold medals and a silver. The young swimmer is not stopping there, as she is slated to compete in the 400-metre individual medley, 200-metre butterfly, 200 backstroke, and four relay events during the championships.

One significant difference in the short-course championship is the pool size, which measures 25 meters instead of the standard 50 meters seen in the Olympics. McIntosh highlighted the advantage of competing in a smaller pool, citing the opportunity to refine her turns as a key focus area.

It’s worth noting that McIntosh previously held the long-course world record in the 400 freestyle before it was surpassed by Australia’s Ariarne Titmus.

This remarkable achievement by McIntosh showcases her immense talent and determination in the world of swimming, solidifying her status as a rising star in the sport.

This article was originally published by The Canadian Press on December 10, 2024.