Just when you thought it was safe to get into a backstroke lane, yet another young male swimmer with superstar times is rolling through the ranks. On Sunday at the Southern California Swimming Club Championships, in the 100 yard backstroke race, 10-year old Ronald Dalmacio swam a 59.76 in prelims to just sneak under the old record of 59.81 that was swum by Destin Lasco in 2012.
This improves Dalmacio from where he previously sat as the third-fastest of all-time to a new spot atop the pile. Lasco’s record was stunning when he broke it, as he was able to work the swim down to a full-second faster than that of the previous record holder – the famous Michael Andrew.
Lasco would go on to trade 11-12 backstroke records with Vinny Marciano after aging up, and is currently the fastest-ranked 13-year old in the country this season.
As for Dalmacio’s swim, he was out in 29.56 and split 30.20 over the last 50 yards. Comparatively, Lasco split 29.13/30.68 on his swim – he was much more aggressive on the front-half of the swim.
Dalmacio could have another crack at the record in finals. Also at this meet, he’s swum a 2:18.31 in the 200 IM, a 55.52 in the 100 free, and 27.86 in the 50 back (three-tenths from that record).
I can see the headlines now. 2024 olympic trials – 100m backstroke. “Youngsters Vinny Marciano, Destin Lasco, and Ronald Dalmacio to face off against Olympic Veterans Ryan Murphy and Jack Conger”
I didn’t say it! At least not yet! 😆
I need to watch him swim to make my own opinion.
My predictions are most of the time based on feelings and not only on performances.
You talk about Lasco. First time I watched him in video, I said: “WOW! We have a very special talent here.”
You talk about Marciano, I don’t have the same feeling at all.
Conger is now a butterflyer.
Murphy? Yes. I think he will still be on top in 2024 to prepare the Paris olympic games. 😉