Women's 200 IM
Julia Wilkinson (NYAC) made it 3 for 3 in wins, but just missed her 3rd Canadian record with her winning time of 2:13.49 over Erica Morningstar (CP) in 2:14.13.
"I remember swimming at trials in 'O4 and the only final I made was the 200IM and it was so surreal sitting in the ready room. I was so star struck with Marianne Limpert [who was on hand to award Julia with her medal] and Joanne Malar and Liz Warden, so now to be in this situation, it's just weird," said Julia post race. "I would have been happier with a 13 low or 12 high, but it's kind of good that when you don't get everything you want, it keeps you motivated."
Paige Schultz (TSC) took the race out first, but she was no match for Julia and Erica who took control by the 100. Julia's splits: 29.56, 32.54, 39.45, and 30.94. Erica was closing on her with her last 50 of 30.56. "When I hit the wall on the breast leg I knew that I had had such a good last 50 in the 200 free that it would be hard for Erica to catch me," said Julia with her usual smile.
Men's 100 Free
Reigning World Champ Brent Hayden (UBCD) was just off his best in the 200 free earlier in the meet, but was able to come back from a minor back injury to retain his National title, winning in 48.91 over Joel Greenshields (UCSC) in 49.14. Joel, like Julia, is coming off a hot NCAA season and has been improving steadily over the past few years. In for 3rd was 200 Champ Colin Russell (DS) in 49.22 and the final relay spot went to Rick Say (IS) in 49.43 who will head to his 3rd Olympics. Fifth spot and a ticket to Beijing went to Richard Hortness (AMAC) with his 49.50.
"I won Commonwealth Trials two years ago in 50.4," said Brent. "That wouldn't have even made finals today. Usually everyone is talking in the ready room, but not tonight. Everyone was very quiet and focused. I never get nervous racing in Canada anymore, but tonight I was, with 8 guys going under 50."
Women's 200 Fly
Audrey Lacroix (CAMO) wasn't going to let this one get away from her. After missing the previous 2 Olympic Teams, Audrey made the FINA B cut earlier with her 100 fly win, but she needed her own event and she needed a FINA A cut. Her splits: 29.09, 32.22, 33.21 and 34.35 for 2:08.87. The time was well off her best, but was still under the A cut and a solid effort.
Stephanie Horner (BBS) missed qualifying in her 2nd event with the silver in 2:11.19, just off the A cut. MacKenzie Downing (UVPCS) finished in 3rd 2:11.88
With a report from Katharine Dunn