Regan Smith, a 22-year-old swimmer, made history on Tuesday night at the U.S. Olympic Trials in Indianapolis by setting a new world record in the women’s 100-meter backstroke with a time of 57.13. After her impressive performance, Smith pumped her fist and punched the water in celebration, showing her emotion and excitement at achieving this milestone.
Smith had been very close to breaking Australian Kaylee McKeown’s world record time of 57.33 during the semifinals on Monday night, missing it by just .14 seconds while lowering her own American record. However, on Tuesday night, Smith gave a stellar performance and reclaimed the 100 backstroke world record while securing her spot at the Paris Olympics.
Smith has been having a strong competition so far, including an impressive third-place finish in the 100-meter butterfly at the start of the trials. She is also the top seed in the women’s 200-meter butterfly and the 200-meter backstroke events that are still to come this week.
Looking ahead, Smith expressed her determination to continue working towards achieving her goals and focusing on the tasks ahead.
In addition to Smith’s record-breaking performance, Gretchen Walsh also set a new record in the 100-meter butterfly at these trials. Walsh’s accomplishment in the semifinals led her to secure a spot on the Paris Olympic team by winning the final.
These outstanding performances highlight
