Paris Olympics: Regan Smith Wins silver in 100m backstroke

Regan Smith has added another medal to her collection with a silver in the 100-meter backstroke at the Paris Olympics.

The 22-year-old swimmer from Lakeville finished second to Australian Kaylee McKeown, who won the event with a time of 57.33 seconds. Smith clocked 57.66 seconds, with McKeown pulling ahead over the final 25 meters.

Smith’s American teammate, Katharine Berkoff, took bronze with a time of 57.98 seconds. NBC swimming analyst Rowdy Gaines noted that Smith’s time of 57.6 seconds was expected to be competitive, but McKeown’s performance secured her victory.

Smith, who set a world record of 57.13 seconds at the U.S. Olympic trials last month, still has the 200 backstroke, 200 butterfly, and relay events ahead of her in the Paris Games.

This is Smith’s second Olympics, having previously won two silver medals and a bronze in Tokyo 2021.

Smith’s journey to Paris has been marked by challenges, including a disrupted training schedule due to the pandemic and high expectations.

However, her renewed passion for the sport, aided by coach Bob Bowman and a sports psychologist, has helped her perform at a high level.

Tuesday’s race in Paris showcased an intense competition among some of the fastest swimmers in history, with Smith and McKeown delivering an exciting performance.