Olivia Smoliga Sets National Records During State Meet

Seems like the University of Georgia is about to add a national record holder to their swim team. Glenbrook South's Olivia Smoliga, who raced in the state swim finals in Evanston on Saturday, broke the national record in both 50-yard freestyle and the 100-yard backstroke. 

She finished the 50 in 21.99 seconds and the 100 in 51.43 seconds, CSL Insider reports. She won those races. 

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Smoliga raced with fellow Titans’ in the 200-yard freestyle relay and 400-yard freestyle relay. They finished in 1:32.98 minutes and 3:24.50 minutes, setting state records and winning both races as well, CSL Insider reports.

"I knew she had it in her," Glenbrook South coach Kelly Timson told the Chicago Tribune. "I think those records are going to be up there for a long time, quite the legacy. She's arguably the best female swimmer in state history."

According to the Lincolnwood Review, before Saturday, the national record for the 50-yard was 22.04, set by U.S. Olympian Kara Lynn Joyce in 2002. The 100-yard record was 51.53, set by Rachel Bootsma two years ago.

"You think about all the practices you have to wake up early for, the doubles in the middle of the season," Smoliga told the Chicago Tribune. "They really all do pay off in the end."