The 2024 U.S. Olympic Trials began with an exceptional performance from Gretchen Walsh, who broke the world record in the semi-finals of the women’s 100 butterfly. She clocked in at 55.18, surpassing Sarah Sjostrom’s record of 55.48 set in Rio in 2016.
The top qualifiers for the women’s 100 fly included Gretchen Walsh, Torri Huske, Regan Smith, Alex Shackell, Claire Curzan, Emma Sticklen, Beata Nelson, and Kelly Pash. While Walsh’s record-breaking swim was undoubtedly a highlight of the evening, she still had to secure her spot at the Paris Olympics with the final set for tomorrow.
Meanwhile, Katie Ledecky and Aaron Shackell secured their spots at the Olympics by winning the women’s and men’s 400 freestyle events, respectively. Shackell’s victory marked his first time qualifying for the Olympics, while Ledecky qualified for her fourth time. The men’s 400 free finalists included Aaron Shackell, Kieran Smith, David Johnston, Bobby Finke, Luke Whitlock, Jake Magahey