(Video Interview) Leah Smith Looks Back on Breakthrough Swim

Photo Courtesy: Peter H. Bick

Editorial Coverage provided by

In the biggest moment of her career thus far in the Olympic Trials final of the 400 free, Leah Smith delivered. Smith came in at 4:00.65, making her the fourth-fastest performer of all-time in the event and a legitimate contender for an Olympic medal. She came within two seconds of world record-holder Katie Ledecky, the closest any woman has come in years.

But Smith still had to come back the morning after and swim the prelims of the 200 free. Smith clocked a 1:56.47 to earn the second seed for tonight’s semifinal, and afterwards she spoke with Swimming World. Smith discussed how she felt this morning after last night’s performance in the 400 free and how she didn’t sleep very much after making the Olympic team. Also discussed was her strategy for the semi-final of the 200 free.

Full Interview:

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

marklewis

7 years ago

Leah Smith showed that she is one of the best in the world last night. When she gets to the Olympics, she’ll be right there for the medals.

She reminded me of Janet Evans, how she kept up a fast pace the entire race. Katie was not pulling away the last 200.