KAZAN, Russia (AP) — Jordan Wilimovsky cruised to a 12.1-second victory in the 10-kilometer open water race at the world swimming championships, qualifying for a berth in next year’s Olympics.
The 20-year-old swimmer from Malibu, California, powered through the finish chute and hit the touchpad in 1 hour, 49 minutes, 48.2 seconds Monday. Wilimovsky pulled out to a comfortable lead heading into the final circuit on the Kazanka River under ideal conditions. There was little wind and the 70-degree F (21-degree C) water was flat on a 73-degree F (22-degree C) day.
Ferry Weertman of the Netherlands earned silver in 1:50:00.3. Spyridon Gianniotis of Greece took bronze in 1:50:00.7.
Ous Mellouli of Tunisia was in the lead pack going into the last lap, but faded to 23rd and won’t defend his Olympic title in Rio de Janeiro.
