The 2026 Pro Swim Series in Westmont is off to a thrilling start, and we're here to dive into the action! But first, a technical glitch: the livestream didn't work, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. Despite this hiccup, the competition delivered some incredible performances, especially in the women's 800 freestyle.
Ledecky vs. McIntosh: The Rematch
The highly anticipated showdown between Katie Ledecky and Summer McIntosh in the women's 800 free final lived up to the hype. These swimming powerhouses, both renowned for their freestyle prowess, clashed in a race that had the crowd buzzing. Ledecky, the GOAT of the sport, faced her rival McIntosh, the only swimmer to beat her in the past decade. And what a race it was! Ledecky emerged victorious, touching the wall in 8:08.57, just ahead of McIntosh's 8:10.45. But here's where it gets controversial—was Ledecky's win a foregone conclusion, or did McIntosh have a real shot at dethroning the queen?
Records and Close Calls
In the 200 backstroke, Regan Smith claimed the top spot, with Isabelle Stadden close behind. Yeziel Morales and Kieran Smith were the men to watch in this event. Lily Price and Sean Niewold dominated the 50 fly, while World Record holder Kate Douglass showcased her class in the 200 breaststroke, leading by a significant margin. AJ Pouch also impressed in the men's event.
As the meet progressed, the 100 freestyle semifinals took center stage. Simone Manuel and Rylee Erisman, both in lane four, showcased their speed. Chris Guiliano, fresh from setting a new PSS record in the prelims, was the man to beat in the men's event, leaving Matt King in his wake.
Final Heat Results: Women's 800 Freestyle
Ledecky's win solidified her dominance, as she holds the World, American, U.S. Open, and Pro Swim Records in this event. McIntosh, despite her valiant effort, couldn't quite match Ledecky's pace. Brazil's Maria Fernanda Costa claimed the bronze, narrowly missing her Brazilian Record.
Other Event Highlights
- Women's 200 Back: Regan Smith took gold, with Isabelle Stadden in second.
- Men's 200 Back: Leon Marchand emerged victorious.
- Women's 50 Fly: Lily Price claimed the top spot.
- Men's 50 Fly: Andriy Govorov's World Record remains unbroken.
- Women's 200 Breast: Kate Douglass's World Record stands firm.
- Men's 200 Breast: Qin Haiyang's World Record remains untouched.
- Women's 100 Free Semifinals: Simone Manuel and Rylee Erisman impressed.
- Men's 100 Free Semifinals: Chris Guiliano's new PSS record shone.
What are your thoughts on Ledecky's win? Was it a predictable outcome, or did McIntosh have a real chance? Let us know in the comments below, and stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the 2026 Pro Swim Series!
