Swimming World Throwback Thursday Video: Janet Evans Makes History in Seoul

PHOENIX, Arizona, September 19. TODAY marks the 25th anniversary of the start of swimming competition at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. It would turn out to be a historic competition in many ways, from Matt Biondi’s pursuit of Mark Spitz’s record of seven golds in one Games to the final gasp for East Germany’s female dominance.

One of the lasting stories to come from Seoul was Janet Evans’ performances that netted her three gold medals. Twenty-five years ago today, she won the 400 individual medley, an event that was not expected to go to the 17-year-old. Evans commemorated the occasion today with a celebratory Tweet:

Today is an anniversary of sorts for me! 25 years ago today I won the 400 IM at the 1988 Seoul Olympics & received my first gold medal.– Janet Evans (@janetevans) September 19, 2013

Today’s Throwback Thursday Video features a clip of that exciting race:

We would be remiss to not also show you what we consider to be one of the greatest races in swimming history. The Olympic final of the women’s 400 freestyle took place on September 22, when Evans routed the field to win in 4:03.85. For 18 years, no one was able to conquer that time, and it keeps Evans 16th on the list of the fastest swimmers in this event.

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