Amazing Performance by Luka Mijatovic in Santa Clara
Last weekend at the George Haines International Swim Meet in Santa Clara, California, Luka Mijatovic pulled off an impressive feat. Mijatovic broke two National Age Group records in the 13-14 boys’ category – the 400 freestyle and the 800 freestyle.
The 400 Freestyle
Competing in the 400 freestyle, Mijatovic broke the previous record held by Evan Pinion since 2009. With a previous best time of 4:02.14, Mijatovic shattered his own record in the prelims with a time of 3:58.85. He then went on to finish the finals with a time of 3:56.56, more than a second ahead of the previous National Age Group record. It is important to note that the record was previously held by Michael Phelps, who set it one month before he turned 15.
Although Mijatovic came in second to Cal standout Lukas Henveaux, who clocked a record of 3:50.67, his sub-4:00 performance still earned him a place in the record books. Luka now joins the likes of Phelps, Dare Rose, Nick Silverthorn, and Trey Freeman as one of six U.S. swimmers younger than 15 to break 4:00 in the 400 freestyle.
The 800 Freestyle
Not content with just one National Age Group record, Mijatovic took down Evan Pinion’s 2009 record of 8:08.75 in the 800 freestyle. Mijatovic swam an impressive time of 8:07.96, beating the previous record by eight tenths.
Other Impressive Performances
Mijatovic’s success did not end there. He also won the 1500 free in Santa Clara in 15:47.19, a testament to his endurance and stamina. Furthermore, he cut three seconds from his best time in the 200 free, finishing fourth in 1:51.70. This performance made him the second-fastest 13-14 boy in U.S. history behind Thomas Heilman’s 2021 NAG record of 1:51.27.
Overall, Mijatovic’s performance at the George Haines International Swim Meet was outstanding. He broke two National Age Group records and showed that he has the potential to become a swimming legend, just like Michael Phelps. It is clear that we can expect great things from this young swimmer, and we are excited to see him compete in future events.
