U.S. Nationals, Day Three Men’s Prelims: Luke Ellis Surges to Top Seed in 400 IM
Some intriguing storylines have further developed over the first two days of the United States National Championships in Irvine, California. After a pair of strong performances in the 100-meter freestyle and 50 butterfly, what will Caeleb Dressel do next? The three-time Olympian is scheduled to contest the 100 butterfly on the third day of action at the William Woollett Aquatics Center, and it will be interesting to see if the veteran can get into 50-low territory.
In the 400 individual medley, Ryan Erisman will take to the blocks after winning the 200 freestyle on Wednesday night. The Cal standout produced a pair of 1:45-low performances in the 200 free on Day Two, and now enters the 400 IM as the No. 2 seed, behind an entry time of 4:12.66. Given his form, could Erisman become the ninth American to go sub-4:10 in the event? It’s a realistic possibility.
Aside from the 400 medley and 100 butterfly, Thursday’s preliminaries will also include the 50 breaststroke and 50 backstroke. Here is an event-by-event recap of the Day Three prelims:
Men’s 400 Individual Medley
The final of the 400 IM will be wide open, with several contenders emerging during the morning session. Earning the top seed for the final was Luke Ellis, who was the lone swimmer to go under 4:15. Ellis touched the wall in 4:14.86, followed by Noah Cakir in 4:15.34 and Ryan Erisman in 4:15.51. Erisman has been 4:12 this year, so he might have the edge this evening among the top-three qualifiers. Cakir was fourth in the 200 breaststroke on Wednesday night.
Top-seeded Michael Hochwalt will also be in the mix for the title, as he entered the meet with a best time of 4:11.46. Hochwalt did only what was needed to advance out of prelims, clocking 4:16.14 to book Lane Six for the final.
Men’s 100 Butterfly
Still to come…
Men’s 50 Breaststroke
Still to come…
Men’s 50 Backstroke
Still to come…
