Kate Douglass Bows Out of 100 Freestyle for Paris Olympics; Gretchen Walsh Picks Up Third Event

Kate Douglass Bows Out of 100 Freestyle for Paris Olympics; Gretchen Walsh Picks Up Third Event

USA Swimming announced on Friday morning that Kate Douglass will not contest the 100-meter freestyle at the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, and that Gretchen Walsh will assume that individual race for Team USA.

Douglass was the winner of the 100 freestyle at the recent United States Olympic Trials, posting a time of 52.56 to finish ahead of Torri Huske (52.93) and Walsh (53.13). But Douglass has decided to relinquish that event and focus on her other two individual races – the 200 breaststroke and 200 individual medley. Douglass is also expected to be a key component on the United States’ relays.

By adding the 100 freestyle to her schedule, Walsh will have three individual events in Paris. She was already qualified in the 100 butterfly and 50 freestyle, which are scheduled for opposite ends of the Olympic program. The 100 freestyle will fit in the middle. Walsh set a world record in the semifinals of the 100 fly, which holds its prelims and semifinals on the first day of swimming competition. The final is slated for Day Two.

Douglass and Walsh are former teammates at the University of Virginia, and continue to train together now that Douglass is a professional. They are expected to be part of the American 400 medley relay in Paris.

Name*

Email*

Welcome to our community. We invite you to join our discussion. Our community guidelines are simple: be respectful and constructive, keep on topic, and support your fellow commenters. Commenting signifies that you agree to our Terms of Use

Name*

Email*

1 Comment

Oldest

Newest Most Voted

Inline Feedbacks

View all comments

mds

1 month ago

Catie DeLoof?