Swimming World Intern Kensey McMahon Part of Historic Final at U.S. Olympic Trials

Swimming World Intern Kensey McMahon Part of Historic Final at U.S. Olympic Trials

The Swimming World family is going to take a moment to laud one of our own, as Kensey McMahon delivered a pride-filled performance at the United States Olympic Trials. A University of Alabama standout, McMahon qualified for the final of the 1500-meter freestyle, finishing eighth on Wednesday night with a performance of 16:20.03.

McMahon is a member of Swimming World’s current summer-intern class and was part of an historical moment at the CHI Health Center in Omaha. This year marks the first time the women’s 1500 freestyle has been contested at the Olympic Trials, thanks to the event being added as a new event on the Olympic schedule.

With her appearance in the final, the U.S. National Teamer will forever be linked with history. The event was won by world-record holder Katie Ledecky, with Erica Sullivan earning the second spot at the upcoming Olympics in Tokyo. McMahon earned her place in the final when she produced a prelim effort of 16:16.09.

“This is my first Olympic Trials, so I feel incredibly blessed to have gotten the opportunity to race, not only in finals, but in a historic one,” McMahon said. “I’m so excited that the 1500 is now contested as an Olympic event for women and I am so excited for my friend, Erica Sullivan, to join Katie Ledecky in representing the U.S. in Tokyo.

“While the swim was not my best, it was the best I could give at the time. It’s been a very tough year and I’m grateful to be here! I’ve never competed on a stage so grand or done a prelims/ finals 1500. There are so many learning opportunities in having this experience, I can only grow as a competitor from it.”

Here are the first two contributions that McMahon has made for Swimming World.

John Hulvey Returning To His Roots in Gainesville With Gator Swim Club

Margo Geer Traveled Unique and Unselfish Route to Alabama Helm

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Julie Sowell

3 years ago

Great job Kensey!

Rik Parker

3 years ago

Love this and the support of a team member in and out of the pool. Great job Kensey and SW!

Susan Mier

3 years ago

Congratulations Kensey! It was great seeing you in the finals and we enjoyed cheering you on!