David Johnston Destroys American Record in 800 Freestyle (SC) During Trip Down Under
As the United States registered a victory over Australia last weekend at the Duel in the Pool in Sydney, distance standout David Johnston was satisfied with his performances. And since he planned to stay Down Under for the Australian Short Course Championships, there was the chance for addition top-tier efforts.
On Wednesday, the University of Texas star delivered on that promise, as he established an American record in the shot-course version of the 800-meter freestyle. Racing at the Sydney Aquatic Centre, Johnston posted a time of 7:30.41 to easily better the previous American standard, which stood to Michael McBroom at 7:33.99 since 2013. Johnston reacted to the effort with jubilation, as he smacked the water and hopped on the lane line.
Johnston went through the opening 100 meters in 53.38 and was at the 200-meter mark in 1:49.43. At the halfway point, Johnston turned in 3:43.38 and he continued to pace 57-second splits through the back half of the race, until he closed in 55.77.
“I can’t believe it really,” Johnston said. “After the Duel win, I knew I was in good shape and I was determined to continue to have fun, with no pressure and that’s just awesome.”
Johnston is heading into his junior season at Texas and will again be a multi-event scoring threat at the NCAA Championships, where the Longhorns are expected to continue their rivalry with defending champion Cal.