The biggest rivalry in swimming was renewed Saturday night in Omaha at the 2012 U.S. Olympic Trials when Michael Phelps edged Ryan Lochte in the men’s 200-meter IM finals, finishing just 0.09 seconds ahead of his toughest competition.
Michael Phelps Bests Ryan Lochte In 200m IM Finals At Olympic Trials
Phelps touched the wall in 1:54.84, Lochte in 1:54.93. They were both more than four seconds ahead of the third-place finisher.
Phelps had a slight lead at both the 50m and 100m mark but in the third leg, the breaststroke, Lochte began to gain the smallest advantage, but that only lasted into the final turn. Phelps cut that gap as they transitioned to the freestyle and held off Lochte over the final 50 meters. It should be noted the race came just 27 minutes after Lochte won his semifinal race in the men’s 200m back.
Both Phelps and Lochte have now qualified for four individual events in London.
Phelps won gold in the event at both the 2004 and 2008 Summer Olympics, with the latter including Lochte taking home the bronze. But Lochte got the better of his rival at the 2011 World Championships, edging him by 0.16 seconds.
The finals of the men’s 200m IM in the Summer Games is scheduled for August 2 in London.
Stay with our StoryStream for the latest from the 2012 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Swimming in Omaha, Neb., as Team USA is decided.
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