Mollie O’Callaghan shatters World Record at World Championships

July 27, 2023 6:28 am.by Staff Writer

Mollie O'Callaghan

In a stunning showcase of talent and resilience, two Australian teenagers, Mollie O’Callaghan and Sam Short, made headlines with their historic performances at the World Championships in Fukuoka. Both athletes demonstrated exceptional skill and determination, leaving the world in awe of their achievements.

Nineteen-year-old Mollie O’Callaghan’s remarkable feat in the 200m freestyle stole the spotlight at the Championships. In the final moments of the race, it seemed Ariarne Titmus, another Australian swimmer and a strong contender, had secured the victory. However, O’Callaghan had other plans. With a breathtaking burst of speed, she mowed down her teammate, overtaking Titmus just before the finish line. The crowd erupted as O’Callaghan’s time of 1:52.85 not only shattered her personal best but also obliterated the world record.

The previous world record of 1:52.98, held by Italian swimmer Federica Pellegrini since 2009, had been the longest-standing record in women’s long-course swimming. O’Callaghan’s achievement marked a historic moment for women’s swimming, as she became the new world record holder. Her victory was particularly notable, given that the last Australian to hold the record was Shane Gould in 1972.

GOOD GOLLIE MISS MOLLIE! That's not just an Aussie 1/2 finish, that's a WORLD RECORD! 🔥🔥🇦🇺

🖥️ #Fukuoka23 | Free on Channel 9 & 9Now, July 23-30.#Swimming #9WWOS pic.twitter.com/q8tHGsI5Dq

— Wide World of Sports (@wwos) July 26, 2023

In a post-race interview, O’Callaghan expressed her elation, admitting that she had not anticipated such an extraordinary outcome. Despite facing nerves and challenges leading up to the event, she managed to exceed her own expectations, leaving her feeling proud and excited about her future in swimming.

Meanwhile, Sam Short, another rising star in Australian swimming, made waves of his own at the Championships. After clinching the gold in the 400m freestyle, Short continued to impress with a silver medal in the 800m freestyle. Leading the race at the final turn, he displayed incredible determination and skill. Although he was overtaken on the last lap by Tunisia’s Ahmed Hafnaoui, his time of 7:37.76 secured a new Australian record.

Breaking the longstanding record set by swimming legend Grant Hackett at the 2005 world championships in Montreal was a significant milestone for Short, who had always looked up to Hackett as one of his sporting idols. With one more event to go, the 1500m freestyle, Short’s performances have cemented him as a promising talent in the world of swimming.

Sam Short swam the fastest ever time by an Australian in an 800m, but it just fell short of Gold! 🥺

What a swim mate, you did Australia proud! 👏🥈🇦🇺

🖥️ #Fukuoka23 | Free on Channel 9 & 9Now, July 23-30.#Swimming #9WWOS pic.twitter.com/m0nXIGQNq9

— Wide World of Sports (@wwos) July 26, 2023

Together, Mollie O’Callaghan and Sam Short have left an indelible mark on the world of swimming, showcasing their extraordinary abilities and determination on the global stage. As Australian teenagers, they have given their nation and the swimming community a glimpse of the bright future that lies ahead for Australian swimming. Their achievements at the World Championships will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration to young aspiring swimmers worldwide, motivating them to chase their dreams and push the boundaries of what is possible in the pool.

More sports news