Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Complex Once Again a World-Record Centerpiece
The Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Complex, originally built in 1965, has been no stranger to world records through the years. Some of the biggest names in the sport have competed at the venue since its unveiling, including numerous members of the International Swimming Hall of Fame. Simply, Fort Lauderdale is a destination for elite athletes in the sport, and that fact was on display over the past four days.
The USA Swimming TYR Pro Series was held from Wednesday through Saturday at the renovated facility, with sensational performances highlighting each day of action. Notably, Fort Lauderdale returned to world-record status when Katie Ledecky lowered her global standard in the 800 freestyle to 8:04.12 and Gretchen Walsh twice set world records in the 100 butterfly, first going 55.09, and then 54.60.
Thanks to the efforts of Ledecky and Walsh, the Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Complex now boasts 13 world-record swims in its history. The first record was set by Catie Ball in the 100-meter breaststroke in 1966, with the last before this weekend set by Michael Phelps in the 400 individual medley in 2002. The latter race featured Phelps and Erik Vendt both going under the previous world record.
Here is a look at the 13 world records set at the Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Complex
Catie Ball (100 Breaststroke: 1:15.60) – 1966
Pam Kruse (400 Freestyle: 4:36.80) – 1967
Andy Coan (100 Freestyle: 51.11) – 1975
Mary T. Meagher (200 Butterfly: 2:08.41) – 1979
Mary T. Meagher (200 Butterfly: 2:07.01) – 1979
Kim Linehan (1500 Freestyle: 16:04.49) – 1979
Martin Zubero (200 Backstroke: 1:57.30) – 1991
Mike Barrowman (200 Breaststroke: 2:10.60) – 1991
Natalie Coughlin (100 Backstroke: 59.58) – 2002
Michael Phelps (400 Individual Medley: 4:11.09) – 2002
Gretchen Walsh (100 Butterfly: 55.09) – 2025
Katie Ledecky (800 Freestyle: 8:04.12) – 2025
Gretchen Walsh (100 Butterfly: 54.60) – 2025
