Summer McIntosh set a new event record in the women’s 200-meter butterfly at the U.S. Open held in Austin, Texas. Under the guidance of renowned coach Bob Bowman, McIntosh clocked in at 2:02.62, claiming victory at the Lee and Joe Jamail Texas Swim Center. The 19-year-old expressed her satisfaction, aiming to improve further towards the world record of 2:01.81.
McIntosh, a three-time world champion in the 200 butterfly, praised her training experience in Texas with Bowman, highlighting the supportive environment. She also excelled in the 400 freestyle event, posting a time of 3:55.37, the fastest in an American pool.
During the competition, McIntosh also secured a bronze in the 100 butterfly and placed seventh in the 100 backstroke. Canadian athletes shone brightly at the U.S. Open, claiming five podium finishes, including three gold medals.
Ilya Kharun emerged victorious in the men’s 50 fly event with a time of 22.98, following his silver wins in the 200 and 100 butterfly races. Kharun expressed contentment with his performance, crediting his mid-season form despite minimal long-course training.
Additionally, Mary-Sophie Harvey of Montreal’s CAMO club earned a silver medal in the women’s 50 fly and previously clinched gold in the 400 individual medley. Harvey emphasized the learning opportunities from each race and maintained a positive outlook on her progress.
Alexanne Lepage and Blake Tierney secured silver medals in the 100 breaststroke and 100 backstroke, respectively. Tierney, battling injuries, acknowledged his satisfactory performance given the circumstances and expressed determination to continue improving.