What have you been up to this summer? Exploring the world, learning a new language, or attending music festivals? How about rewriting history to become your country’s first-ever triple champion at a single Olympic Games?
And, if that’s not enough, being congratulated by some of the world’s most recognizable political leaders? This has been no ordinary summer for Canadian swimming sensation Summer McIntosh.
A Season of Success
“This past nine days have been incredible,” the 17-year-old told CNN Sport’s Amanda Davies in Paris. “I got to talk to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for a second time in a week, which is insane. I never thought that would happen.”
After winning her first of three gold medals, McIntosh received a call from Trudeau. “It’s an honor to know that we have his support. It means the world,” she said. “It’s incredible for him to communicate that to me.”
Years in the Making
McIntosh’s extraordinary summer has been years in the making. Just three years ago, at 14, she beat Canadian legend Penny Oleksiak at the Olympic trials to secure her place on the Canadian Olympic team. Oleksiak praised McIntosh, saying, “She does not die… I love her work ethic. She’s strong in and out of the pool.”
In Tokyo 2020, McIntosh, the youngest Canadian at the Games, narrowly missed a podium finish in the 400m freestyle, finishing fourth. Since then, she has become a four-time world champion and the 400m individual medley world record holder.
Olympic Glory in Paris
Paris was the stage for McIntosh to transition from prodigy to champion. She secured two Olympic record times and completed a golden medley double in the 200m and 400m. She ended her Parisian campaign with four individual medals – three golds and one silver – joining the ranks of swimming greats like Michelle Smith, Katinka Hosszú, and Kristin Otto.
“I wouldn’t change anything in my journey to have these medals,” McIntosh said. “Sacrificing things sometimes doesn’t feel worth it, but in the end, it is.”
Inspiration from Greatness
McIntosh finds inspiration in American swimmer Katie Ledecky, her childhood hero. “I remember making a poster of one of her quotes: ‘Every race is a sprint. Some are just longer than others,’” she recalled. McIntosh and Ledecky swam together in the 400m freestyle race in Paris, with McIntosh taking silver and Ledecky bronze.
“Katie is an incredible athlete, and to be in the same sentence as her is crazy,” McIntosh said.
Inspiring the Next Generation
McIntosh’s performances have captured the public’s imagination, earning her features in Time Magazine and The New York Times. Alongside her, another swimming star, 22-year-old Léon Marchand, has also made headlines.
“If I can inspire one person, that’s unreal,” McIntosh said. “Watching the Rio 2016 Games inspired me to take up swimming. Now, being in the position to inspire others is incredible.”
Family Support
McIntosh’s success is deeply rooted in her family’s sporting background. Her mother, Jill McIntosh, competed in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics as a 200m butterfly swimmer. Her older sister, Brooke, is a competitive pair skater.
“My family’s understanding of sport has been crucial,” McIntosh said. “Even my dad, who doesn’t get mentioned often, was an incredible athlete growing up.”
At eight, McIntosh had to choose between figure skating and swimming. “My sister was better at swimming, and I was better at figure skating. But I’m glad I chose swimming. I love the competitiveness and racing aspect of it.”
The Secret Ingredient: Mikey the Cat
Interestingly, one key to McIntosh’s success has been her family cat, Mikey, named after 23-time Olympic swimming champion Michael Phelps. “Mikey is the best cat ever,” she said. “He’s a huge ginger cat, the sweetest guy, and he’s always happy. I’m very excited to see him.”
Summer McIntosh’s summer has indeed been one for the history books, filled with remarkable achievements, inspiration, and family support. As she continues her journey, she remains a beacon of hope and determination for the next generation of athletes.(Superace88)