By John Lohn
LONG BEACH, Calif., July 13. COMING through in the clutch is starting to become a trademark of Margaret Hoelzer.
The reigning silver medalist in the 200-meter backstroke from last year's World Championships in Barcelona, Hoelzer turned on the jets in the final 100 meters and claimed first place in her prime event with a time of 2:11.88, the sixth-fastest mark in the world this year.
Hoelzer, swimming in lane four, took command of the race during the third lap, and continued to expand her lead, until she easily finished ahead of Kristen Caverly. Second place, though, was just fine with Caverly, who qualified for her first Olympic Team.
Caverly surged on the final lap and touched in 2:12.70, just ahead of Hayley McGregory (2:13.74). Pam Hanson, who was in the mix for a majority of the race, faded down the stretch and finished seventh. Carmen Retrum (2:13.81) placed fourth and was followed by Maureen Farrell (2:14.01) and Erin Volcan (2:14.90). Erica Meissner finished eighth.
