#208: 17 world records last year - can Sheffield ’26 beat that?

Dan Mills joins Helen Gorman to preview the National Masters Short Course Championships in Sheffield. Last year, 17 world records fell - could we see even more this time around?

We pick out the races to watch, including a mouth-watering men’s 50m freestyle showdown between Aaron Francis and Tom Cahoon, with Commonwealth Games medallist Jamie Ingram in the mix.

The men’s 100m freestyle could see as many as six swimmers break the magical 50-second barrier, while 50-year-old Fleur Turner could be on course to dip under a minute in the women’s event.

And is women’s backstroke the hottest event in British Masters swimming right now? After a string of record-breaking performances this year, could Sheffield deliver even more?

We also celebrate some of the remarkable performances in the older age groups, exploring why Masters swimming is so good for our health and wellbeing. Dan brings a unique perspective to this discussion through his work as a doctor and public health campaigner.

Plus, he shares some stories behind Trafford Masters’ success, his own approach to swimming and his ambition to challenge for a European record in Sheffield.

We want to hear from you! Why do you think Masters swimming is getting faster and faster; and how can the sport better manage the growing demand for championship entries?

Join the conversation on Instagram at @freestyle_media_swimming or request to join our private Facebook Group.

And please share the podcast with your swimming friends. Let’s get the whole Masters swimming community talking!

See you poolside!