Phelps wins two races in U.S. nationals

Posted July 08, 2009 11:00 pm

Associated Press

INDIANAPOLIS - Michael Phelps, the 14-time Olympic gold medalist, racked up his second victory of the night at the U.S. national championships Wednesday. It just wasn't up to his exacting standards. Phelps won the 200-meter butterfly in 1 minute, 52.76 seconds, well off his world record of 1:52.03 set in Beijing.

"I'm not happy about the 200 fly, but I think some of the things that happened are going to be helpful to me to swim faster," he said. "When I'm satisfied is when I'm doing a best time. I'm not used to not doing a best time when I shave and taper."

Phelps was pushed in the next lane by Tyler Clary, a 20-year-old Michigan swimmer who stayed close throughout and finished second in 1:53.64.

Earlier, Phelps won the 200 freestyle, and his 2 victories earned him a trip to the world championships in Rome later this month.

Aaron Peirsol created the biggest buzz at the Indiana University Natatorium pool by reclaiming his world record in the 100 backstroke. The Olympic champion trailed Matt Grevers at 50 meters before pouring it on down the stretch to win in 51.94 seconds.

"That's a beautiful race," Peirsol said. "I knew I could do something special."

Article Comments

Article Comments

Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.