Ryan Murphy explains new underwater technique (Video)

^{Produced by Coleman Hodges.}

^{Reported by Lauren Neidigh.} 

Leading off the Cal Golden Bears’ 400 Medley Relay at the 2016 Men’s NCAA Championships, junior Ryan Murphymade history once again with his 100 backstroke leg. Murphy was in a league of his own, jumping to a clear lead for Cal to become the first man ever under 44 seconds. He hit the wall in a time of 43.51, setting a new American, U.S. Open, and NCAA Record.

Murphy swam a lifetime best by over half a second, breaking his own NCAA Record of 44.17 and Nick Thoman’s American and U.S. Open Records of 44.07. That 44.17 was Murphy’s time from his 400 medley relay split last season. The 100 backstroke takes place tomorrow, meaning Murphy has 2 more chances to lower the record he set tonight.

Split Comparisons:

Murphy came out with a scorching 20.90 to the feet at the 50, and brought it home in a 22.61. That’s by far the fastest time Murphy or Thoman has been on the front half. That bodes well for his 50 back on Cal’s 200 medley relay tomorrow.

After tonight, Murphy now has 4 of the 10 fastest times in history. He also sits on top of the All Time fastest performers, leading a list that includes the likes of Thoman, Matt Grevers, and Ryan Lochte.

All Time Top Performers, Men’s 100 Backstroke:

1. Ryan Murphy, 2016- 43.51
2. Nick Thoman, 2013- 44.07
3. Matt Grever, 2013- 44.49
4. Ryan Lochte, 2006- 44.60
5. Ben Hesen, 2008- 44.72
6. Eugene Godsoe, 2012- 44.75
7. (T-8) Shane Ryan, 2014- 44.78
8. (T-8) David Nolan, 2015- 44.78
9. Albert Subirats, 2007- 44.83
10. Tom Shields, 2012-44.86