World Championships, Day Five Prelims: Team USA Takes Top Seed in 800 Freestyle Relay; Aussie Targeting WR
The United States and Australia did what was necessary during prelims of the 800-meter freestyle relay at the World Championships, qualifying one-two for the evening final. The United States claimed the top seed in 7:46.36, thanks to the foursome of Leah Smith (1:57.78), Erin Gemmell (1:55.65), Alex Shackell (1:56.05) and Anna Peplowski (1:56.88). Gemmell and Shackell particularly excelled, the teenagers showing the promise they possess.
Australia followed Team USA’s triumph in the first heat by winning the second prelim in 7:47.84. The Dolphins turned to the quartet of Madison Wilson (1:57.06), Lani Pallister (1:56.83), Brianna Throssell (1:56.31) and Kiah Melverton (1:57.64).
Plenty of lineup changes are expected at night, which is typically the case with relay squads. The United States will send Katie Ledecky and Bella Sims in action, with Claire Weinstein an option as well. As for the Australians, Mollie O’Callaghan and Ariarne Titmus will bring massive firepower to the relay, while Shayna Jack – riding a hot relay hand this week – could bring a boost, too.
Australia will be favored for the gold medal and to break the world record of 7:39.29, which the Aussies posted at last year’s Commonwealth Games. O’Callaghan broke the world record in the 200 freestyle on Wednesday night while Titmus registered the No. 3 performance of all-time.
Also advancing to the final were Great Britain (7:51.13), China (7:51.55), the Netherlands (7:53.52), Canada (7:54.73), Hungary (7:55.26) and Brazil (7:56.14).
