The 2026 Australian Swimming Trials continued on Day 2 with a focus on Commonwealth and Pan Pac roster spots, as well as Para Pan Pac selection. The day's highlights included a stellar performance by 17-year-old Sienna Toohey in the women's 100 breaststroke, breaking the 1:06 barrier and securing her spot at the Commonwealth Games and Pan Pacific Championships. Toohey's time of 1:05.97 not only broke her own All-Comers Record but also moved her into the top 5 in the world this season. This achievement marks her as the third-fastest Australian of all time in the event.
In the women's 50 butterfly, Alexandria Perkins dominated, winning with a time of 25.60, just shy of her season-best. Her performance adds to her already impressive record, including a co-Aussie Record of 25.31 from the 2025 World Championships. The women's 100 backstroke saw Kaylee McKeown, the reigning Olympic and world champion, deliver a blistering performance, finishing in 57.77 with a new season-best time. McKeown's victory further cements her status as the third-fastest woman in the world.
The men's schedule featured the 200 freestyle, with no clear favorite, and the 100 backstroke, where 17-year-old Henry Allan impressed with a runner-up finish. The men's 100 butterfly saw Para Pan Pac qualifying times achieved by five swimmers, with Declan Budd leading the way. Overall, the Trials showcased the depth of talent in Australian swimming, with several swimmers securing their spots on the national team and setting new personal bests.
The day's events also included the women's 100 butterfly multi-class, where Jasmine Greenwood topped the field, and the men's 100 butterfly multi-class, where Declan Budd and Timothy Hodge achieved Para Pan Pac qualifying times. These achievements highlight the inclusive nature of the Trials, providing opportunities for swimmers with disabilities to compete at the highest level.
As the Trials continue, the anticipation builds for the remaining events, with more swimmers aiming to secure their spots on the national team and make their mark in the world of swimming.
