So in case you didn't know, we're currently in the middle of the US Nationals meet. Competing at this meet is a guy named Michael Phelps. Also competing is a guy named Ryan Lochte. Lochte has become the "other guy" to the casual swimfan, known for always going head to head with Phelps but always getting edged out in the end.
Lochte and Phelps face off so often because they both specialize in the 200 IM. Funny little fact about the 200 IM: Phelps isn't the World Record holder. The owner of the WR 1:54.10 time from 2009 is Lochte. Lochte set that time over a year ago, suited up in LZR-era technology.
Today, however, Lochte showed the world why he owns that title. In a heat which boasted names like Tyler Clary and Eric Shanteau, in addition to Lochte and Phelps, six out of the eight final times hovered around the 2-minute mark.
The only two people under 1:59 were Lochte and Phelps. The top two times? Phelps-1:55.94, Lochte-1:54.84. Not only did Lochte beat Phelps, but he did it by more than a second. Let's also not forget that his final time isn't that far off from his WR time. Speed suits?
Oh and by the way, prior to tonight Lochte was injured. Yeah, you read it right. Shoulder problems, a strained groin, and a national title in the 200 IM. As far as I'm concerned, this is a turning point for Lochte. I'm calling it now that Lochte will be the star of the show in London. Keep it up Reezy.
Until next time, keep swimming.
No comments:
Post a Comment