Canadian swimmers Josh Liendo and Ilya Kharun showcased impressive performances at the swimming World Cup event held in Toronto. Liendo secured the gold in the men’s 100-meter freestyle, breaking the Canadian record with a time of 45.30 seconds. He outperformed Americans Jack Alexy and Chris Guiliano, who finished second and third, respectively.
Expressing his joy, Liendo stated, “I was happy to get a good swim and just went out there and had fun. It’s good momentum, the city is doing good right now, and it’s just good to be a part of.” Meanwhile, Kharun clinched victory in the 200-meter butterfly event with a time of 1:49.71, surpassing Alberto Razzetti of Italy and Mitchell Schott of the United States.
Reflecting on his performance, Kharun commented, “I thought I did very well; I took it smooth and kept it smooth the entire way. I thought maybe I could go a bit quicker but it’s alright. I’ve been tired from all the races.” Kharun also mentioned the support from the crowd, saying, “The crowd really pushes us, and I’m just happy to be here. It’s a great opportunity we have to compete in Toronto. It’s very nice.”
Liendo’s exceptional performance continued as he set a short-course world record in the men’s 100m butterfly event and secured a second gold medal in the 50m freestyle. Moreover, Kharun received $10,000 US for winning the 200m butterfly in all three stops of the World Cup circuit, finishing second to Liendo in the 100m butterfly event.
In another highlight, Finlay Knox from Okotoks, Alberta, secured third place in the men’s 200m individual medley. The event saw American Shaine Casas taking the top spot, followed by Japan’s Tomoyuki Matsushita.
The women’s category witnessed Australian swimmer Mollie O’Callaghan setting a new short-course world record in the 200m freestyle race, finishing with a time of 1:49.36. In the women’s 400m individual medley, Mary-Sophie Harvey from Trois-Rivières, Quebec, achieved a personal best time of 4:24.25, securing the second position.
Reflecting on her performance, Harvey expressed her happiness, stating, “I’m really happy with the time. I think it’s been very cool coming to Toronto in the last stop.” The event showcased remarkable achievements by these talented swimmers on the global stage.