Summer McIntosh wins CP female athlete of year in overwhelming vote
Summer McIntosh was the clear choice for The Canadian Press award for 2024 female athlete of the year, with voters agreeing that her exceptional performance at the Olympics in Paris solidified her position as a standout athlete. At just 17 years old, McIntosh made history by becoming the first Canadian to win three gold medals in a single Olympic Games, along with a silver medal. Her outstanding achievements in the pool earned her 52 out of 53 votes, with the remaining vote going to skeleton world champion Hallie Clarke.
The Canadian Press has been honoring male and female athletes of the year since 1932, and McIntosh’s back-to-back wins in 2023 and 2024 further solidify her status as a top athlete in Canada. Previous winners of the award include notable names like Marie-Philip Poulin, Leylah Fernandez, and Christine Sinclair.
McIntosh’s success in Paris was a result of her meticulous preparation and dedication to her craft. Racing 13 times over nine days, she displayed incredible mental and physical fortitude, culminating in four podium finishes, including three gold medals. Her dominant performance in events like the 400-metre individual medley and the 200-metre butterfly showcased her talent and determination.
Looking ahead to the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, McIntosh remains focused on continuing to push herself to reach her full potential. Despite her young age, she is determined to stay in the sport for as long as she enjoys it, with a goal of achieving her personal best in every race. Her recent success at the world short-course championships in Budapest, where she set multiple world records, is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence.
Training with the Sarasota Sharks in Florida under the guidance of coach Brent Arckey, McIntosh is balancing her athletic pursuits with her education, aiming to complete her high school graduation requirements in 2025. She takes pride in her Olympic medals, storing them safely in a wooden box and sharing them with others to inspire and motivate those around her.
As McIntosh continues to make waves in the world of swimming, her dedication and passion for the sport serve as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes. With her eyes set on future success, she remains committed to achieving her goals and leaving a lasting impact on the sport of swimming.
