Swimming: Record for Phelps
American swimming sensation Michael Phelps has set a new 100 meter butterfly world record at the US Championships in Indiana.
Last Updated: 10/07/09 7:34am
American swimming sensation Michael Phelps has set a new 100 meter butterfly world record at the US Championships in Indiana.
The 14-time Olympic gold medalist swam the two-lap final in 50.22 seconds on his way to victory at the Indiana University Natatorium.
Phelps' time eclipsed that of former world record holder Ian Crocker, who set a previous best of 50.40 at the 2005 world championships in Montreal.
Phelps led at 50 meters with a split of 23.83, just three-tenths off world-record pace. Known for his strong finishes, he pulled clear to beat Tyler McGill, who touched in at 51.06 and Aaron Peirsol (51.30).
Phelps was a previous holder of the 100m fly record, but only for a day at the 2003 World Championships in Barcelona.
"I still remember the day at worlds when I broke it and the next day Crock broke it and Crock's had it ever since," he said. "To finally be able to get it tonight means a lot."
Phelps' victory gave him a spot in the event at the world championships this month in Rome. He has already qualified in the 200 fly and 200 freestyle as he continues his transformation from swimming middle distances to sprints.
