Summer McIntosh, a Canadian swimming sensation, is aiming for greatness at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles after achieving remarkable success at the 2024 Olympic Games and last year’s world championships. With three individual swimming gold medals in Paris and four world championship golds in Singapore, McIntosh now eyes matching the single-Games record of five solo golds, a feat only accomplished by the legendary Michael Phelps in 2008. Envisioning her future triumph, McIntosh felt inspired while flying over SoFi Stadium, the upcoming largest swimming venue in Olympic history.
This week, McIntosh is in Irvine, California, for the Pan Pacific championships, a prestigious event featuring powerhouse swimming nations like Australia, the United States, Japan, Brazil, and Canada. The competition, which commenced with open-water events in Long Beach, marks McIntosh’s participation in four events across four days. Alongside McIntosh, Canadian swimmers like Taylor Ruck, Sophie Angus, Oliver Dawson, and Lorne Wingginton are poised to showcase their prowess in the pool.
Despite foregoing the 800m freestyle and the 200m butterfly, events in which she excels, McIntosh is set to compete in the 200m freestyle, 400m individual medley, 400m freestyle, and 200m individual medley at the Pan Pacs. Her coach, Bob Bowman, the former trainer of Michael Phelps, has been instrumental in her preparation for this significant competition. McIntosh holds world records and reigning world champion titles in her chosen events, making her a top contender in the pool.
The Pan Pacs will witness McIntosh facing off against American star Katie Ledecky in the 400m freestyle, renewing their competitive rivalry. Notable swimmers like Lanni Pallister, Zac Stubblety-Cook, and a lineup of top American swimmers will also grace the competition, promising thrilling races and intense competition. Viewers can catch all the action live on the CBC Gem streaming app and CBC Sports website, with races scheduled in the morning and evening sessions.