The U.S. and Australian women entered the 2026 Pan Pacific Championships with similar times and goals in the 400 freestyle relay.
Just about a half second separated the two countries on paper, but a different mix of swimmers brings out all kinds of possibilities.
Australia won the first relay round on Day 2, claiming the 800 free relay.
In the 400 free relay, it took an American record for Team USA to earn gold.
Kate Douglass led off for Team USA against Australia’s Meg Harris and led by a half second at the turn. But Douglass finished in 51.69, the meet record and second-fastest swim in history.
“I am not going to lie, that was the goal (to set a record),” Douglass said.
Gretchen Walsh was next and faced Alex Perkins of Australia. Walsh went 52.23 to keep the relay on world record pace and hand the relay to Torri Huske.
Huske built that lead with a split of 52.79 and Simone Manuel dove in for the anchor.
Manuel kept the lead and was out in a 24.90 to pull away, giving the U.S. the win in 3:29.32, breaking the Pan Pacific meet record and American record.
“Just seeing USA sprint do amazing things has been really special to be a part of,” Manuel said.
Australia, who finished with Milla Jansen and Olivia Wunch, took the silver in 3:31.11 after taking most of the major wins in the event the past few years.
Canada took the bronze in 3:36.44 with Taylor Ruck, Mary-Sophie Harvey, Leah Tigert and Leilani Fack. It was the second medal of the night and fifth so far this week for Ruck.
