A Statistical Appreciation of Katie Ledecky’s Distance Dominance
As we near the start of the Commonwealth Games, followed by action at the European Championships and Pan Pacific Championships, we figured it was an appropriate time to provide a quick statistical look at the distance dominance of Katie Ledecky. The American star, who has won four consecutive Olympic gold medals in the 800-meter freestyle, has dominated the distance scene like no other.
Ledecky first emerged on the international scene at the 2012 Olympic Games in London, where she claimed the gold medal and defeated reigning titlist and world-record holder Rebecca Adlington of Great Britain. In the decade-plus since, Ledecky has furthered her legacy in dynamic fashion. Perhaps most impressive is the fact that she’s 11 seconds faster than anyone in history in the 1500 freestyle.
Below is a breakdown of Ledecky’s performances in the 400 freestyle, 800 freestyle and 1500 freestyle, listing how many times she has dipped under specific barriers. The lists also include Ledecky’s closest pursuers, with performances updated through July 7.
400 Freestyle (Sub-4:00 Performances)
- Katie Ledecky – 35
- Summer McIntosh – 13
- Ariarne Titmus – 13
- Lani Pallister – 4
- Li Bingjie – 2
- Erika Fairweather – 2
- Federica Pellegrini – 1
800 Freestyle (Sub-8:10 Performances)
- Katie Ledecky – 14
- Summer McIntosh – 3
- Lani Pallister – 1
1500 Freestyle (Sub-15:40 Performances)
- Katie Ledecky – 32
- Simona Quadarella -1
- Lotte Friis – 1
- Lani Pallister – 1