On Saturday night, the U.S. Swimming Olympic Trials began with a bang in Indianapolis, as two incredible swimmers stole the show. Gretchen Walsh set a new world record and Katie Ledecky secured her fourth selection to the U.S. Olympic team by winning the women’s 400m freestyle in 3:58.35, finishing well ahead of her competition.
The atmosphere at the pool was electric, with loud cheers and support from an enthusiastic crowd adding to the thrill of the competition. Ledecky celebrated her victory with a hug from Paige Madden, who took second place in the race and beat her personal best time from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Madden’s impressive performance means she is now likely to earn her spot on the Olympic team for the second time, while Ledecky’s journey is far from over as she has two more events to compete in later in the week: the 1500m freestyle and the 800m freestyle. With her win on Saturday, Ledecky is on track to become a four-time Olympian and has her sights set on breaking Jenny Thompson’s record for the most Olympic medals won by an American woman.
As athletes continue to compete at the Trials, it is clear that this year’s event promises to be one of excitement and high stakes as they aim to secure their spots on the U.S. Olympic team headed to Paris 2024.
