Nathan Adrian has entered the 200 free at a handful of meets through the end of this year, and above he discusses why he’s chosen to enter that event, and how he thinks it translates to his specialty the 100 free.
He also hinted that he plans to race the 200 free at least throughout the short course season, so his runner-up finish in 1:34.87 will be a good benchmark for him to shoot for.
New age of 100m freestyle – All the latest champions are excelling on the 2nd 50, and by extension the 200m Free.
Magnussen – back in 24.4 in his 47.1
McEvoy – 24.9 in winning Pan Pacs, and also 200m Australian champ
Adrian – back in 24.8 to olympic gold
Feigen – 24.9 to beat adrian for silver at 2013 Worlds
Morozov – back in 24.9 to his 47.6, much faster than his 48.0 (21.9, 26.0) at 2013 Worlds
Hoogenband – back in 24.9 to out touch fast starting Schoeman in 2004 Olympic games
It seems the way to get faster is to have a better 2nd 50 as opposed to going out faster. Hopefully… Read more »
I’ve always thought that the SCY 200 free translates really well into the LCM 100 free. Take a 50 specialist and a 200 specialist with the same short course 100 free time and have them race the long course 100 free. My money’s on the 200 guy every time.
Anyway, beyond all that, it’s just fun to see him taking new events seriously and excelling. We’re used to seeing IM’ers like Tyler Clary in every event, but it’s cool to see highly specialized swimmers like Nathan Adrian and Matt Grevers step out of their bread and butter events. Even if it is just a slightly extended version of his money-maker. Bring back the butterfly, Nathan!