Gretchen Walsh has made a name for herself in the world of swimming by breaking the world record in the women’s 100-meter butterfly semifinals at the U.S. Olympic trials. Her time of 55.18 was enough to surpass the previous record set by Sarah Sjöström in 2016, making it the first world record set at U.S. trials since Michael Phelps in 2008. As a standout swimmer from the University of Virginia, Walsh is vying for a spot on the Olympic team.
However, she faces stiff competition from Torri Huske and Regan Smith, who are also contenders for the two spots on the Olympic team. Huske, who previously held the American record, nearly matched Walsh’s pace during the first semifinal heat with a strong performance that came close to breaking her own world record.
Smith, a medalist at the 2021 Olympics, also put up an impressive showing during the semifinals. With all three athletes vying for a spot on the Olympic team, it will be up to them to give their best effort during the final race to determine who will represent the United States in this highly anticipated event.
In conclusion, Gretchen Walsh has shown tremendous talent and skill by breaking the world record in her semifinal heat at the U.S. Olympic trials. However, she faces tough competition from Torri Huske and Regan Smith who are also fighting for a place on
