By John Lohn
OMAHA, Nebraska, July 6. THAT'S a double-dip for Dara Torres, the comeback queen. Already the winner of the 100 freestyle earlier in the week, a victory that was somewhat surprising, the 41-year-old shocked no one by winning her pet event, the 50 freestyle. Torres took the lead from the start and touched in an American-record time of 24.25. That lowered her previous standard, set in the semifinals by Torres at 24.38.
Heading to her fifth Olympics, Torres has been a great story in the sports world, the mother of a 2-year-old daughter who is defying all sorts of odds by proving that age, for those determined enough, is just a number. Torres already has won nine Olympic medals during her career and that total could soon reach double digits.
"I think it will (sink in) when I get to training camp and get with my teammates and get ready for Olympics," Torres said of her magical week.
Taking second and continuing her splendid showing at these Trials was Jessica Hardy, who touched the wall in 24.82. While it wasn't as fast as her 24.48 from the semifinals, it was enough to give Hardy another Olympic nod. She's also qualified in the 100 breaststroke and as a member of the American 400 free relay.
Placing third in a time of 24.88 was Lara Jackson, who briefly held the American record Saturday after the preliminary heats. Jackson was followed to the wall by Kara Lynn Joyce (24.90) and Kara Denby (25.12). The field was rounded out by Brooke Bishop (25.16), Lacey Nymeyer (25.18) and Christine Magnuson (25.49).
Video Footage Removed Due to NBC Restrictions
Go to Swimming World's 2008 Olympics Landing Page for the most comprehensive coverage of the meet on the Internet.
