Katie Cosgriffe claimed Canada’s maiden gold medal of the Para Pan Pacific Swimming Championships in Walnut, California. The 20-year-old from Burlington, Ontario, secured the top spot in the women’s multi-class 100-meter backstroke final with a season-best time of 1:08.1, earning 962 points for her first individual international medal. In this multi-class event, winners are determined by a points system based on how their times compare to specific world record standards for their class. Cosgriffe expressed her delight, stating she focused on her race plan without expectations and was thrilled to clinch the gold. This victory marks Cosgriffe’s inaugural international gold medal.
Cosgriffe, competing as an S10 swimmer, viewed the event as crucial preparation for the upcoming Summer Games in Los Angeles. Despite missing her target time of sub-1:08, she found satisfaction in concluding her challenging season with a gold medal. Later, she also secured a silver medal in the 100 butterfly, setting a new Canadian and Americas S10 record in 1:05.77. Cosgriffe emphasized the significance of her butterfly achievement, especially after a demanding schedule on the competition day.
Aurélie Rivard, a seasoned athlete from Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, added to Canada’s medal tally by winning gold in the women’s 50m freestyle final, showcasing her prowess with 983 points. Rivard, a 13-time Paralympic medalist, expressed her happiness at achieving a gold medal and hinted at potential adjustments to her event focus for the upcoming 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles.
Nicholas Bennett of Parksville, British Columbia, also shone by securing a silver medal in the 200m individual medley, marking his second podium finish at the championships. Bennett highlighted his strategic approach in the race and his continuous drive for success. Australia’s Ricky Betar claimed the bronze in the same event.
Another standout performance came from Nicolas-Guy Turbide from Québec City, who broke his own Canadian record in the 100m backstroke with a time of 1:00.49. Turbide expressed confidence in his performance, viewing the event as valuable preparation for the conditions expected at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.
The championships not only showcased exceptional swimming talent but also provided valuable insights for the athletes and staff as they gear up for future competitions. Planning for the upcoming Games in Los Angeles, the athletes experienced outdoor racing conditions, offering a glimpse into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.