7th Heaven for Ledecky

American's incredible 800m free streak continues despite stiff competition

- Kimberly Kwek

Experience proved to be the winning formula at the World Aquatics Championships (WCH) on Aug 2, as American legend Katie Ledecky emerged victorious in the most anticipated race of the meet—the showdown between the veteran and Canadian teenage sensation Summer McIntosh in the 800m freestyle.

Ledecky triumphed for a seventh time in a championship record of 8min 5.62sec at the WCH Arena, touching home ahead of Australia's Lani Pallister—who set an Oceania record in 8:05.98—and McIntosh, who clocked 8:07.29.

The 28-year-old said: "That's pretty incredible, three of us going under 8:10... incredibly fast. They pushed me all the way. I'm just really happy I could put that together. I just told myself to trust my legs, because I've gotten a bit better at kicking. Just running home at the end."

"I just came in tonight trying to enjoy it as much as I can. I don't think I have anything to lose at this point of my career. Just enjoying the crowd, swimming against the best in the world. Everyone in that heat is the next generation of swimmers coming up; just proud to be a part of it."

The race lived up to its billing, with the sold-out crowd treated to a thrilling battle between Ledecky, McIntosh, and Pallister from start to finish.

While Ledecky led for most of the race, McIntosh and Pallister were right on her heels.