Kieran Smith Knows What He Has to do to Take the Next Step Forward (Video)

2021 PRO SWIM SERIES – SAN ANTONIO

Reported by James Sutherland.

MEN’S 400 FREE FINALS

  • PSS Record: 3:43.55, Sun Yang (CHN), 2016
  • U.S. Olympic Trials Cut: 3:57.29
  1. Kieran Smith, UN-FL, 3:49.37
  2. Zane Grothe, BCH, 3:53.07
  3. David Johnston, TEX, 3:55.06

Kieran Smith put on a dominant display in the final of the men’s 400 free, leading from the get-go to finish in a time of 3:49.37, six-tenths off his season-best of 3:48.78 from the U.S. Open. That time ranks him first among Americans and 12th overall in the world this season.

On the fact that there’s a little more pressure on him since breaking the 500 free American Record in February, Smith said he’s ready for it heading into Trials.

“I like a little bit of pressure,” he said in his post-race interview. “Pressure makes diamonds.”

Zane Grothe, who edged out Smith in the 800 free on Thursday, took second in 3:53.07 to establish himself as the fifth-fastest in the country, while Texas freshman David Johnston hit a new lifetime best for third in 3:55.06. Johnston had previously been 3:56.20 in February.

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Jonathan Charbroiled Steak
3 years ago

I’m going to be honest Kieran is becoming one of my favorite mew swimmers. Breaking records and a joy to listen to.

Max Hardie
Reply to  Jonathan Charbroiled Steak
3 years ago

He will have to improve a lot to compete with the international swimmers (europeans, aussies, chinese). Americans have always struggle in mid/long distance. He will have to swim close to 3.42 in 400 and 1.43 to have real chances to medal.

Caleb
Reply to  Max Hardie
3 years ago

1:43 to medal?

Coach Mike 1952
Reply to  Caleb
3 years ago

We’re talking Agnel-level here huh? 1:43.14 is his TWR!

Last edited 3 years ago by Coach Mike 1952
Coach Mike 1952
3 years ago

Fantastic quote from Kieran.

The Michael Phelps Caterpillar
3 years ago

Mario Kart god!

eL eL
Reply to  The Michael Phelps Caterpillar
3 years ago

He’s aight

About Coleman Hodges

Coleman Hodges

Coleman started his journey in the water at age 1, and although he actually has no memory of that, something must have stuck. A Missouri native, he joined the Columbia Swim Club at age 9, where he is still remembered for his stylish dragon swim trunks. After giving up on …

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