20-year-old Croatian swimmer breaks Michael Phelps’ record
- by croatiaweek
- in Sport
Croatian swimmer Jere Hribar has broken a 14-year pool record previously held by the legendary Michael Phelps.
The Croatian national team swimmer, Olympian, and Louisiana State University (LSU) swim team member set a new record in the 100-yard freestyle with an impressive time of 42.99 seconds at a recent four-university meet at Leyeune Hall pool.
The previous Leyeune Hall pool record was held since 2010 by none other than Phelps, who went on to become the most successful and decorated Olympian in history, winning 28 medals.
“This news is an excellent indicator of Jere’s improving swimming form, and we are confident that he will shine in full glory at the upcoming World Swimming Championships in Budapest this December,” the Croatian Swimming Federation told us.
The 20-year-old, who was born in Split and was a member of the Grdelin swimming club, is a 6-foot-8 freestyle specialist who has rapidly made a name for himself in the swimming world.
In the autumn of 2022, he committed to Louisiana State University to further his education and career, joining the LSU Tigers swim team.
When asked about his decision to attend LSU, Hribar explained, “I have several reasons, but the main ones are that I will be surrounded by the best athletes in the world, and I know I will improve a lot because of the incredible athletic culture here.
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Another key reason is the opportunity to work with Coach Bishop and the best assistant coaches in the sport. I spoke with them several times, and they seemed like really great people. They have coached Olympians and are very knowledgeable in their field. Outside of swimming, I will also receive a world-class education at LSU, and I am excited for the new classes.”
Hribar is definitely a name to watch out for.