IRVINE, Calif. (AP) — World record-holder Ryan Lochte has qualified fastest in the 200-meter individual medley heats at the Pan Pacific championships.
The American was timed in 1 minute, 58.03 seconds Saturday. His teammate Tyler Clary was second in 1:58.56.
Michael Phelps dropped out of the heats, with his coach Bob Bowman saying Phelps isn’t in good enough shape to swim two IMs and the 400 medley relay final in one day.
World record-holder Cesar Cielo of Brazil led the 50 freestyle heats in 21.64 seconds, lowering the meet record of 21.84 set by American Cullen Jones four years ago.
American Nathan Adrian, the 100 free winner at Pan Pacs, was second in 21.85. Jones qualified fifth in 22.15.
