Summer McIntosh recently shared her excitement and pride after an incredible streak of victories at the 2024 World Aquatics Short Course Swimming Championships. McIntosh stunned the audiences with three world record-breaking performances at the event held at Duna Arena in Budapest, Hungary, from December 10 to 15, 2024.
The 17-year-old bagged three world records, all with record-breaking performances. The Canadian swimmer clinched the 400m freestyle event with a world record of 3:50.25, surpassing Australia's Lani Pallister and fellow teammate Marey-Sophie Harvey, who clocked 3:53.73 and 3:54.88, respectively.
Furthermore, she went on to cement her prospect with a victory in the 200m butterfly event by outpacing eight-time Olympic medalist Regan Smith and Elizabeth Dekkers. While the Canadian posted a world record of 1:59.32, the American and the Australian listed 2:01.00 and 2:02.91, respectively.
McIntosh's third world record at the 2024 World Aquatics Short Course Swimming Championships was achieved in the 400m medley, where she registered 4:15.48, defeating Katie Grimes and Abiie Wood. Fresh off her recent feats, she took to social media to reflect on the week and appreciate World Aquatics and her fans.
"Wow, now that was a fun week of racing for team Canada," McIntosh wrote. Thank you @world_aquatics for hosting the best ever short course World Swimming Championships in the beautiful city of Budapest!
"Always incredibly proud to represent Canada and beyond grateful for everyone’s support," the swimmer added.
Summer McIntosh conveys her joy after receiving the honor of World Aquatics Female Swimmer of the Year
Summer McIntosh enjoyed a remarkable season this year after bagging three Olympic gold medals. At just 17 years old, McIntosh became the first Canadian to win three gold medals at a single Olympic game.
She dominated the 200m butterfly and 200m and 400m medley events by clocking 2:03.03 (Olympic record), 2:06.56 (2:03.03), and 4:27.71, respectively. Further, she also took home a silver medal from the 400m freestyle event. Receiving the prestigious honor, McIntosh reflected on her season and exuded her joy.
"I don’t even know how to put it into words,” McIntosh said. "It’s been pretty crazy and all over the place with the Olympics and this. Lots of ups and downs, but overall amazing, and I couldn’t have done it without all my support. I’m so grateful for that. I had an amazing 2024 overall, in and out of the pool, so I couldn’t be more happy.” (via Olympics.com)
Summer McIntosh received the honor after outshining legendary Katie Ledecky and other elite swimmers like Regan Smith, Kaylee McKeown, and Sarah Sjöström.