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Ryan Murphy shattered the American, U.S. Open, and Championships records in the 50 backstroke to grab his second National title of the meet. Touching the wall in 24.24, Murphy broke Randall Ball’s 2008 record of 24.33 by .09. Using an incredible start with a .48 reaction time, Murphy vaulted himself to #1 in the world and earned a spot in the event at the 2019 World Championships.
In second was NC State’s Justin Ress, who was also under Ball’s former American record with his second place time of 24.31. Ress will be one to watch for in the tomorrow’s 100 backstroke, which is the swimmer’s last chance for qualifying for Tokyo. In third was Ress’ teammate Ryan Held (24.60), while Michael Andrew completed his third finals swim of the night in fourth (24.62).
Backstroke veteran Matt Grevers was fifth in 24.63, while Daniel Carr (24.81), Chris Staka (25.13), and Bryce Mefford (25.44) rounded out the final.
Congratulations Ryan
Nice