By John Lohn
LONG BEACH, Calif., July 13. THE king of the 100-meter butterfly didn't yield the throne. Instead, he strengthened his grasp on his kingdom.
Ian Crocker, who soared to gold at last year's World Championships, blasted his global standard in the 100 fly, touching the wall in 50.76, well under the former record of 50.98. In the process, Crocker withstood a challenge from Michael Phelps.
Splitting 23.62 for the opening 50 meters, Crocker dictated the pace and maintained his status as the favorite for Olympic gold. While Phelps made a move midway through the final lap, Crocker answered the challenge to prevail comfortably. Phelps was clocked in 51.15.
The race was the final outing by Phelps at these Olympic Trials. The 19-year-old phenom from the North Baltimore Aquatic Club qualified for the Athens Games in six events – the 200 and 400 I.M., 100 and 200 butterfly events, 200 freestyle and 200 backstroke. Phelps finished second in his last two events, behind Aaron Peirsol in the 200 back and Crocker in the 100 fly.
Ben Michaelson took the third spot, with a mark of 52.95 while Peter Verhoef finished fourth in 53.16. Daniel DiToro picked up fifth in 53.17 and was followed by John Abercrombie (53.70), Davis Tarwater (54.00) and James Lawler (54.75).
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