NCAA Men’s Championships: Josh Liendo Reflects on No. 2 All-Time Performance in 100-Yard Butterfly
The University of Florida’s Josh Liendo has enjoyed a sensational meet through the first three-plus days of the NCAA Men’s Championships in Indianapolis. After clocking a sub-19 split on the Gators’ victorious 200 medley relay on Night One, Liendo followed with solo crowns in the 50 freestyle and 100 butterfly, and also helped Florida win the 200 freestyle relay.
In the 100 butterfly, Liendo became the second-fastest performer in history, on the strength of a 43.07 effort. That time trails only the NCAA and American record of 42.80, which was established by Caeleb Dressel at the 2018 edition of the NCAA Champs. Dressel and Liendo are training partners in Gainesville, and Liendo indicated that the work he does with Dressel has paid off. Liendo also joked that Dressel will likely needle him for a couple of missed turns in the 100 fly final.
Liendo demonstrated his leadership in addressing Florida’s disqualification in Friday night’s 400 medley relay. In addition to supporting teammate Macguire McDuff, who left the block early on the fly-to-freestyle exchange, Liendo discussed the importance of Florida focusing on the final night of competition and leaving Indy on a positive.
A Canadian star, Liendo figures to play a major role for his nation at this summer’s Olympic Games in Paris, especially in the 100 freestyle and 100 butterfly.
Here is what Liendo had to say after winning the 100 butterfly.
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