Destin Lasco Takes Down Michael Andrew NAG Record

Michael Andrew is used to breaking records. But as he has proven so many times in the past 6-months, records are made only to be broken. And one of his National Age Group Records went down last Saturday at the Middle Atlantic Junior Olympic meet. There, 10-year old Destin Lasco took down Andrew’s mark in the 100 yard backstroke with a 1:00.75. That knocked of Andrew’s time of 1:00.80 that was set in February of 2010.

Though no exact height figures are available, Lasco, like Andrew, is quite tall for his age, but with so much variance in maturity in swimmers at that age, it’s impossible to predict if his success will continue. Some (including Michael Phelps) have gone from 9-10 National Age Group Records to bigger things. Others have not.

Lasco earlier this year also broke the 9-10 50 yard backstroke NAG Record with a 28.37 (that was not Andrew’s record). Andrew now holds 4 NAG Records in that age group.

Among other great swims from Lasco at the meet, include a 2:02 in the 200 free, a 5:22 in the 500 free.

Lasco, who doesn’t age up until August, is also very good in long course. Based on his yards progression in the last 6 months, he could take a run at a few long course National Records as well, including specifically the 100 meter free mark of 1:02.39 held by pro basketball player and reality TV star Kris Humphries. Last summer, as a 9-year old, Lasco swam a 1:05.39 in that race.

Lasco’s biggest advantage in the backstroke is spectacular turns – he’s well ahead of his age on his underwater work, which especially pays off in age group races where he’s often swimming dead into the wake of competitors 10-15 yards behind him. On top of the water, he has a very smooth, relaxed rotation, and outstanding body position. Watch the video of his swim above.