Bobby Finke Set World Record At Paris Olympics 2024 Swimming

There’s a lot of lighthearted banter and friendly barbs when Ireland’s Daniel Wiffen, Italy’s Gregorio Paltrinieri, and USA’s Bobby Finke get together. Topics often revolve around their ages – Paltrinieri is five years senior to Finke and six years to Wiffen – their previous races, and the trials of their sport. At the Paris Olympics 2024 swimming, after enduring the demanding 800m and 1500m freestyle events, these swimmers have plenty of stories about their struggles.

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Paris Olympics 2024 Swimming Trials

“It was incredibly intense and challenging. I’m exhausted,” Finke shared with Olympics.com after securing the gold in the men’s 1500m freestyle on August 4. He also shattered a world record that had stood since London 2012. “I know I’ll feel this for days.”

Wiffen, who took third place at the Paris La Defense Arena, reflected similarly. “That was the most gruelling 1500 I’ve ever raced,” he remarked, adding that it was only surpassed in difficulty by a previous race. “The one in Fukuoka at the World Champs in 2023 was more painful.”

These athletes have a strong sense of brotherhood despite their fierce competitiveness. They are aware of the demanding nature of their sport. “The 1500m is the most supportive event,” Wiffen noted. “We all put in the hard work, and it’s wonderful to see Bobby break that long-standing record.”