Sam Short Shatters Records in Eye-Popping 800m Freestyle at Australian Trials
In a stunning display of athleticism, Sam Short captured the spotlight at the Australian swimming trials on Wednesday, securing victory in the men’s 800 meters freestyle with a remarkable time of 7:36.73. This win, achieved on the third day of a competitive finals event, solidly positions the 22-year-old swimmer at the forefront of his sport.
Short not only claimed first place, finishing nearly 11 seconds ahead of his nearest competitor, but he also set national, Oceanian, and Commonwealth records. This impressive feat surpasses his prior best of 7:37.76, a time he had registered during the 2023 World Aquatics Championships. Additionally, he established a new all-comers record at this year’s Australian trials.
With this latest achievement, Sam Short now ranks as the third-fastest swimmer ever in the 800 meters freestyle category, trailing only renowned swimmers Zhang Lin of China and Tunisia’s Oussama Mellouli, who recorded times of 7:32.12 and 7:35.27, respectively, during the 2009 World Championships held in the era of supersuits.
Moreover, Short’s time has broken the textile suit world record, previously held by Ahmed Jaouadi of Tunisia, whose mark of 7:36.88 was set at the last World Aquatics Championships in Singapore.
This extraordinary performance not only highlights Short’s talent but also secures his qualification for the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, where he will compete in three freestyle events, including the 200m and 400m disciplines.
