(Video Interviews) Katie Ledecky, Leah Smith Excited For A Fast Relay

Distance darlings Katie Ledecky and Leah Smith further proved to the world that they also have speed by placing first and second, respectively, in the women’s 200 free at the 2017 Phillips 66 National Championships. Ledecky won the event in 1:54.84, lowering her own world’s best for the year. Smith finished second in 1:56.68. Both swimmers will also represent Team USA in the 800 free next month in Budapest.

Ledecky said that she felt good during the 200 free and notes that she is becoming more confident in swimming the event. The five-time Olympic gold medalist knows this race will be challenging in Budapest but is pleased that she has posted consistently fast times throughout the season.

Smith knew she has been having a good season and is happy to be able to represent the United States in another individual and relay event. The 2016 Rio Olympian knows that the relay in Budapest will be great and is ready to take on a leadership role.

Watch more video interviews from Nationals here.

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

commonwombat

6 years ago

Realistically they will not need to be ‘earth-shatteringly’ fast in Budapest; merely competent.

Quite simply, there is only likely to be one team within camera shot at the finish and that should be CHN. However their lack of a real “power hitter” (someone with the capacity for a ‘killer’ split) will most likely see them at a comfortable distance behind.

Bronze is realistically anyone’s guess with a likely scrum of teams (most likely ITA, AUS & HUN) in the high 7.40s; each possessing a “power hitter” but lacking the requisite depth/falling away to 1.57highs/1.58s.