Canadian swimmer Summer McIntosh narrowly missed out on a gold medal by 0.02 seconds in the women’s 200-meter individual medley at the Pan Pacific Swimming Championships. She settled for silver behind China’s Yu Yiting, who set a championship record with a time of 2:07.45. American Alex Walsh secured the bronze in 2:07.66.
Yu started strong on the butterfly leg, pacing under the world record, but American Regan Smith briefly took the lead on the backstroke. Yu regained her position on the breaststroke and held off McIntosh in the final stretch.
McIntosh, the reigning Olympic and world champion from Toronto, claimed her third individual medal at the event, having previously won gold in the 400m medley and silver in the 200m freestyle. She also contributed to Canada’s bronze in the women’s 4x100m freestyle relay.
Reflecting on her performance, McIntosh expressed disappointment but acknowledged the learning experience. The 19-year-old, who holds the world record in the event, emphasized her growth and aspirations moving forward.
In another event, Canadian Alexanne Lepage clinched gold in the women’s 200m breaststroke, edging out reigning champion Kate Douglass. Lepage set a lifetime best time of 2:21.73, while Douglass finished second in 2:22.57. South Africa’s Kaylene Corbett secured the third spot.
With a total of 13 medals (three gold, four silver, six bronze), Canada achieved its highest medal count at the Pan Pacific Championships since 1997. The U.S. topped the overall standings with 50 medals, followed by Australia with 35 and Canada.
Additionally, Taylor Ruck set a new Canadian record in the women’s 50m freestyle, finishing fourth in a highly competitive final. The event saw Kate Douglass breaking the world record for the second time in the same day.
The championships also witnessed Lani Pallister of Australia defeating Katie Ledecky in the 800m freestyle, marking Ledecky’s first international loss in the event. Pallister set a new championship record with a time of 8:06.10.
Lastly, Australian Sam Short claimed victory in the men’s 1,500m freestyle, setting the sixth-fastest time in history and breaking a longstanding championship record. The event showcased remarkable performances from swimmers worldwide, setting new records and delivering thrilling races.