Dubai: American standout Ryan Lochte set the first individual swimming world record since high-tech bodysuits were banned, winning the 400-meter individual medley at the short-course world championships.
Lochte finished the race in 3 minutes, 55.50 seconds, smashing the previous record set by Laszlo Cseh of Hungary a year ago by nearly two seconds.
While the China women's squad set a world record in the 800 freestyle relay Wednesday, no other world marks — including in the long-course pool — have been set in 2010. The high-tech bodysuits made from buoyant materials were banned at the beginning of the year.
Two other Americans came away with golds Thursday. Natalie Coughlin won the 100 backstroke in 56.08 seconds and Rebecca Soni won the 50 breaststroke.
Bureau Report
First Published: Thursday, December 16, 2010, 23:21