And this is why the 50’s of strokes are great.
An Arizona Wildcat broke the U.S. Open Record in the men’s 50 on Thursday in Indianapolis at the 2013 U.S. World Championship Trials, but it wasn’t the one you’re thinking of.
Kevin Steel swam a 27.33 in the 50 breaststroke in prelims to take the top seed and the mark as the fastest ever swim on American soil, knocking .01 seconds off of the 27.34 set by Mark Gangloff at the 2009 U.S. National Championship meet. Steel’s teammate Cordes was just behind the record as well in 27.39.
Steel had a breakout season at the NCAA level, finishing 2nd to his teammate Cordes in the 100 yard breaststroke in what was one of the top NCAA times in history. He has a ton of speed to burn, and his swim highlights what is so fun about these 50 meter races.
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It is unfair of the Swimswam staff to imply that Steel doesn’t deserve to be at this level. Maybe you guys don’t mean the implication, but it seems a little unsportsmanlike…
Geez! You make it sound like Kevin should apologize, like he doesn’t “deserve” to be where he is! This was no fluke!! If it wasn’t for Cordes, Steel would be NCAA champion in the 100 (:51.6). I first noticed him in the 100 heats @NCAAs –his speed and super-efficient stroke looked so easy. He’s new on the scene, but he’s certainly not a “nobody”. This guy is for real and I think he’s ready to make his mark in the 100 LC, too.
Certainly no fluke! I also noticed him during the heats at NCAA’s. He has an amazingly fluid and efficient stroke. He is made for the 50 breast. If the stroke 50’s are added to the Olympic program, Steel could potentially be a huge beneficiary.
Amazing swim. That was perfect swimming. Loved to watch that race. Congrats
the 50 br. will be a ton of fun to watch this year! Hand speed, rythm, kick, no cheating!! lol Good stuff from Zona – i saw him swim the 100 and 200, hes good, but overshadowed by some cordes guy.
Well done Kevin !!! the 2 Kevins will battle in the final ! Great race in perspective