Summers-Newton smashes world record in Glasgow

Maisie Summers-Newton continued to reach new heights with another world record in the women’s 200m individual medley on day one of the World Series leg in Glasgow.

The 16-year-old, who won European gold last year, lowered her time to 2m 57.99s to take a stunning gold.

Summers-Newton, an SM6 para-athlete, secured 1027 points to beat Italy’s Carlotta Gilli and compatriot Ellie Simmonds, while her time secured a place at the World Championships this year.

Elsewhere, there was gold for S8 para-athlete Alice Tai in the women’s 100m freestyle. The two-time Paralympic medallist touched the wall in 1m 4.06s to finish with 981 points, fending off Canada’s Aurelie Rivard and Gilli.

Summers-Newton was fourth, while Ellie Robinson came home in sixth.

“It means a lot to be able to break the world record – it’s not quite sunk in yet,” said Summers-Newton.

“Obviously, I did it at Euros last year and I wanted to try and go close to it this meet, but to go two seconds under it is just amazing.

“In the heats, I wanted to try and get the [World Championships] qualifying time and then in the final, just give it everything I’ve got and it worked, so I’m really happy.

“I think I’ll be able to take away a lot of confidence from this meet. It’s still only day one but I’m feeling good.

“Hopefully I’ll be able to go quicker at Worlds as that is my main aim now.”

The medals kept on rolling at Tollcross International Swimming Centre, with Reece Dunn also finishing on top of the podium with men’s 100m freestyle gold.

He finished in 51.92s and scored 1094 points to beat Japan’s Takayuki Suzuki and Colombia’s Nelson Crispin.

In the morning session, Dunn and Rio 2016 silver medallist Tom Harmer showed he is in good nick by going inside the world record in the S14 men’s 100m freestyle – although the event will not be at Tokyo 2020.

Dunn said: “This week, it’s been nice to have all the British team together and getting to meet everyone and the coaches.

“This is only my second ever para meet but if my classification goes through, I’d love to make the team for London as I’ve waited my whole career for something like that.”

Photo Credit - British Swimming