Sara Curtis Shines with Record-Breaking Performance at Italian Short-Course Championships
image 673e6f105420c.webp
Sara Curtis delivered a stunning performance at the Italian Short-Course Championships, setting an Italian record in the women’s 50 freestyle and claiming an impressive four titles. Her dominance highlights her rise as one of Italy’s brightest swimming talents.
Breaking Records and Winning Gold
The 18-year-old from Savigliano stole the spotlight in her signature event, the 50 freestyle, clocking an incredible 23.77. This broke the 2022 national record of 23.83 set by Silvia Di Pietro, who finished second in 24.17. Curtis secured her fourth gold medal of the meet with this victory.
Curtis began her campaign on Friday by winning the 50 backstroke in 26.14. On Saturday, she impressed further, clinching the 100 backstroke with a personal best of 57.17 and the 100 freestyle in 52.37.
Other Highlights from Riccione
While Sara Curtis was the standout performer, other swimmers also made their mark:
- Lorenzo Mora dominated the backstroke events, winning the 100 back (50.23), 50 back (22.89), and 200 back (1:49.95), securing a Short-Course Worlds cut in the latter.
- Simona Quadarella excelled in distance freestyle, claiming victories in the 1,500 free (15:33.40), 800 free (8:15.30), and 400 free (4:02.29).
- Benedetta Pilato, known for her prowess in breaststroke, triumphed in the 100 breaststroke (1:03.77) and 50 breaststroke (29.30).
Competitive Battles in Men’s Events
The men’s events brought intense finishes:
- Alessandro Miressi won the 100 freestyle in 47.10, narrowly beating Giovanni Carraro by just 0.08 seconds.
- In the 50 freestyle, Leonardo Deplano edged out Miressi with a winning time of 21.21, compared to Miressi’s 21.46.
Emerging Talents and Notable Performances
Several young and seasoned swimmers delivered noteworthy performances:
- Giulia D’Innocenza won the 200 backstroke in 2:05.70, redeeming herself after finishing second in the 100 back and 200 freestyle.
- Silvia Di Pietro, despite losing her 50 freestyle record, took home gold in the 50 butterfly (25.52).
- Nicolo Martinenghi, adjusting to the short-course season, placed third in the 50 breaststroke (26.07) and skipped his stronger events.
A Meet to Remember
The Italian Short-Course Championships celebrated both emerging stars and seasoned champions. With her record-breaking performance and multiple titles, Sara Curtis solidified her position as a swimmer to watch on the international stage, marking a new era for Italian swimming.
