January is a month stacked with pioneering distance swims throughout history. Many of them speak to the Australian summer, with John Konrads, John Bennett and Stephen Holland prime examples of the rush on standards Down Under at this time of year.

This weekend will also bring the 10th anniversary of American great Katie Ledecky's 8:06.68 World record in the 800m freestyle at the Austin round of the pro Swim series. The most decorated female Olympic swimmer in history, Ledecky has made the early-in-year Pro-Swim events a moment to lay down distance freestyle swims faster than any of her rivals have ever mustered. In 2016, her 8:06 was the warm-up for an 8:04 World-record win at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, for the second gold in what is now a pioneering and record run of four golds 2012 to 2024 in that event:

Ledecky The Living Legend Is Founder Member Of Female Quad Club

“Thank you for making me better,” says Ledecky to Titmus after their epic 800. Says Titmus “She’s made me a better athlete, I totally respect what she’s done in this sport, more than any other athlete”

State Of Swimming +Craig Lord

This week 10 years on from her 2016 World mark, Ledecky swam a 15:23, second-fastest ever, 1500m free... in the January 2026 Vortex:

The Vortex - January 2026: McIntosh, Marchand & Co Show Race-Pace Lace Work On Way To Catwalk Of Full Reveal

The Vortex, our monthly compilation of news, views & links to external coverage of the sport, is available as part of our offer of free content emailed to those who register. For a deeper dive, consider a paid subscription in support of our work. Thank you

State Of Swimming +Craig Lord

On This Day throughout history...

January 15, 16, 17

Legends

The Last Lap Of Legend John Konrads Is Done: World Swimming Mourns Passing Of Aussie Distance Great At 78

Obituary - World swimming is mourning the passing John Konrads (21 May 1942 – 25 April 2021), the Australian Olympic and Commonwealth Champion who passed away at the age of 78

State Of Swimming +Craig Lord

• Stephen Holland