Gretchen Walsh became the top 50 backstroker of all-time as she led Virginia’s 200 medley relay off in a 22.82 tonight.
Walsh was previously number two as she went a 23.04 a few weeks ago in a dual meet against NC State. She was behind Michigan senior Maggie MacNeil who had the top time with a split of 23.02.
Women’s 50 Back- Top Performers All-Time
- Gretchen Walsh– 22.82
- Maggie MacNeil– 23.02
- Katharine Berkoff– 23.10
- Rhyan White– 23.35
- Rachel Bootsma– 23.36
This is also the first time any woman has been under 23 seconds in the event. Although Walsh would hold the American Record, the United States does not recognize records in the 50 yard butterfly, backstroke, and breaststroke.
In addition to Walsh’s split, NC State’s Katharine Berkoff also improved upon her fastest 50 backstroke split as she swam a 23.10 tonight. Her previous best was a 23.27. Now, she is just off of MacNeil’s time by 0.08.
Walsh helped Virginia to a first place finish in the 200 medley relay in which the team broke the conference record, and Berkoff helped NC State to a second place finish.
That lat spread though 👀
She easily goes 23.4/25.5 tomorrow.
Doubtful.
I mean, I don’t think going out 23.4 will be “easy”…
Elite backstroke differential is often under 2 sec. I agree :48 is in play. But I think 23.4 to the feet is unrealistic. How about. 23.6 – 25.3?
Maggie super sad. Guess I’ll have to change my name to Big Mac #2
http://www.mcdonalds.ma/sites/default/files/big_tasty_0.png
Thank you. Just looking at That is basically what some of those old coaches would say is a full meal for their female swimmers. The same ones who would caliper and weigh girls on deck in front of their teammates.
Holly cow