Canadian swimming superstar Summer McIntosh has revealed that her focus is now fully on intense training blocks ahead of the 2026 Pan Pacific Championships, as the three-time Olympic gold medallist continues refining her race programme for the season.
The 19-year-old described herself as a “work in progress” while outlining her preparations for a packed summer schedule that includes the Canadian Trials and the Pan Pacific Championships in Irvine, California.
McIntosh recently impressed at the USA Swimming Pro Swim Series in Fort Lauderdale, where she claimed victories in multiple events, including a thrilling 400m freestyle duel against American legend Katie Ledecky. Despite the strong performances, the Canadian admitted she was not fully satisfied with some of her race times.
Speaking to Olympics.com, McIntosh said there are still several demanding training phases ahead before the Pan Pacific Championships begin in mid-August. She explained that she and coach Bob Bowman are currently prioritising endurance work, race strategy, and technical improvements, particularly in turns and pacing.
The Canadian star has been training under legendary coach Bob Bowman since 2025 after moving to Austin, Texas. Bowman is best known for coaching Olympic icon Michael Phelps, and McIntosh has credited the partnership with helping elevate her preparation and long-term planning.
McIntosh also confirmed that the 200m freestyle remains one of the key focus areas in her evolving race lineup. Although she won the event in Fort Lauderdale, she admitted the discipline is still developing as part of her broader programme.
The teenager has already established herself as one of the world’s dominant swimmers following a sensational 2025 season in which she won four gold medals and one bronze at the World Aquatics Championships. She also set multiple world records and was named Swimming World’s Female Swimmer of the Year.
Earlier reports also confirmed that McIntosh will skip the 2026 Commonwealth Games to focus entirely on the Pan Pacific Championships, a decision aimed at avoiding scheduling conflicts and maximising preparation for major international events leading toward the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
The 2026 Pan Pacific Championships are scheduled to take place from August 12 to 15 in Irvine, California, and are expected to feature many of the world’s top swimmers from nations including Canada, the United States, Australia, and Japan.
With rivals such as Katie Ledecky, Mollie O’Callaghan, and Regan Smith continuing to push global standards higher, McIntosh remains one of the sport’s biggest attractions heading into another crucial season.
Discussion about this post