Summer McIntosh, the Canadian swimming sensation, is aiming for unprecedented success at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles after her remarkable achievements at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris and the world championships in Singapore last year. Having already secured multiple gold medals, McIntosh is now eyeing five solo golds at the upcoming Olympics, a feat achieved only by legendary swimmer Michael Phelps in 2008 in Beijing.
During a recent trip to southern California, McIntosh felt inspired as she flew over SoFi Stadium, the venue that will host swimming events at the 2028 Olympics, accommodating up to 38,000 spectators. The 19-year-old from Toronto expressed her excitement and aspirations for the upcoming games.
McIntosh’s journey to glory in Los Angeles begins with the Pan Pacific championships in Irvine, California. This prestigious event, held every four years, brings together top swimmers from around the world, including powerhouse nations like Australia, the United States, Japan, and Canada.
The competition kicked off with open-water events along the Pacific coast in Long Beach, where Emma Finlin, a 2024 Olympian, represented Canada with a strong performance. The main swimming events will take place in Irvine, with McIntosh leading a team of 42 Canadian athletes over four days, alongside seasoned swimmers like Taylor Ruck, Sophie Angus, and Oliver Dawson.
McIntosh, coached by Bob Bowman, Phelps’ former trainer, is set to compete in four events at the Pan Pacs, showcasing her versatility and talent. Despite opting out of the 800m freestyle and the 200m butterfly, where she has excelled in the past, McIntosh remains focused on her key events, aiming to replicate her past successes and set new records.
The competition will feature intense matchups, including McIntosh facing off against American star Katie Ledecky in the 400m freestyle, renewing their rivalry from previous competitions. With top swimmers from Australia, the United States, and other nations vying for victory, the Pan Pacs promise thrilling races and fierce competition.
Fans can catch all the action live on the CBC Gem streaming app and the CBC Sports website, with morning heats starting at 1 p.m. ET and finals at 10 p.m. ET each day. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness world-class swimming and cheer for your favorite athletes at the Pan Pacific championships.