The Canadian swimming contingent had a promising start to the Paris 2024 Olympics, putting in some remarkable performances to offer the country hope for gold. Following their successes in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, expectations are strong that they will win a few gold medals in various swimming categories this time around.
After reigning champion Maggie Mac Neil finished seventh in the women’s 100-meter butterfly in Paris 2024, Canada’s chances for a gold medal in the event were dashed. The 24-year-old Londoner from Ontario, who was full of confidence after winning gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, will experience a range of emotions.
Despite leading in the first 50 metres of the race, Canada’s Maggie Mac Neil was unable to finish first despite exerting her whole effort. She appeared exhausted after giving her all when going for the wall, and she only finished sixth in the overall rankings in the Paris 2024. 
Maggie Mac Neil after the swim posted on her Instagram, “Doing something once is difficult…doing something again is even harder. I don’t have to prove anything to anyone, especially myself”.
She made a strong Olympic debut in Tokyo, winning a silver medal in the freestyle relay and a bronze in the medley relay.
All’s Not Over Yet In Paris 2024
She still has a much to play for, with the 100m freestyle and women’s medley relay to come. Hopefully, she can bring glory in these competitions. Although she did not finish on the podium in the 100m butterfly, she remains one of Canada’s best possibilities for gold in the remaining events of Paris 2024.
When she won the Tokyo Olympics, she didn’t have any family or friends to celebrate with, but now she does. She will have the support of her family and friends, who will be in Paris for the 2024 Olympics after previously supporting her in the 100-metre butterfly.
“Now time to turn my focus to 100 freestyle. In the great words of @harriismeg “free is the same as fly, just one arm at a time,” Maggie added.
In Paris, Summer McIntosh finished second in the 400 m freestyle final, giving Canada its first medal at the 2024 Olympics. Mary Sophie Harvey has advanced to the final of the 200-meter freestyle, where she wants to capture another medal for Canada.
Following a great start to the Games, Canada will be hoping that the swimming team can capture gold in the upcoming events.
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