Campbell Sisters Sizzle As Australia Defends Crown In 400 Free Relay With WR 3:30.65

Was there really any doubt?

What has been discussed, expected and predicted for months finally came to fruition on Saturday night at the Rio Aquatics Centre, as Australia celebrated a second consecutive Olympic crown in the women’s 400 freestyle relay, and third title in the past four Games. Simply, the home of female sprinting was solidified as the nation from Down Under.

Handling the last two legs, the Sisters of Speed – Bronte Campbell and Cate Campbell – lifted their nation to the gold medal and a world record of 3:30.65, joining forces with Emma McKeon and Brittany Elmslie. The triumph bettered the Aussie’s world record of 3:30.98 from the 2014 Commonwealth Games and handed them a victory of more than a second over the United States, which set an American record of 3:31.89 for the silver medal. Canada secured the bronze in 3:32.89, anchored by 16-year-old Penny Oleksiak.

Boasting three ladies – the Campbell sisters and McKeon – with sub-53 credentials in the 100 freestyle, Australia went to work with more firepower than any of its rivals, and the results supported that status. Meanwhile, Elmslie was a more-than-capable fourth, her spot on the evening squad confirmed when she covered her leg in prelim duty in 53.22.

The difference, though, was found in the name Campbell. When Bronte entered the water for the third leg, the Dolphins faced a deficit of .61. Yet, it wasn’t time to worry as the younger Campbell covered her work in 52.15, putting Australia ahead by .42. That cushion was plenty for the elder Campbell, who brought her team home with a split of 51.97, her …

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