Olivia Smoliga Sprints to 50 Free Win Over Simone Manuel at TYR Pro Swim Series in Richmond

Photo Courtesy: Peter H. Bick

Olivia Smoliga, swimming out of lane seven, had a minor upset win in the 50 free final on Friday night in Richmond at the TYR Pro Swim Series. Smoliga swam a 24.83 to move up to 13th in the world rankings for 2019 as she held off Simone Manuel (24.97). Manuel is the best sprinter in the United States and did not get off to her great start that fans are accustomed to seeing from her.

Manuel tied for second with Farida Osman (24.97), who represents Egypt internationally and swims in Berkeley, California. Those three were the only swimmers under 25 seconds in the final.

Margo Geer (25.13) and Kelsi Dahlia (25.26) placed fifth and sixth in the final as both will represent the United States at the World Championships this summer. Dahlia just recently got out of the 200 fly final where she placed third.

Amanda Kendall (25.48) and Anika Apostalon (25.75) also swam in the A-Final.

Results:

Olivia Smoliga, USA, 24.83
Simone Manuel, USA, 24.97
Farida Osman, EGY, 24.97
Kasia Wilk, POL, 25.12
Margo Geer, USA, 25.13
Kelsi Dahlia, USA, 25.26
Amanda Kendall, USA, 25.48
Anika Apostalon, CZE, 25.75

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