Australia Shatters World Record in Women's 4 x 100m Medley Relay at Athens 2004

Name: Australia Shatters World Record in Women's 4 x 100m Medley Relay at Athens 2004
Start: 2004-08-21
Location: Unspecified

Historic Moment for Australia in the Pool

At the 2004 Athens Olympics, the Australian women's 4 x 100m medley relay team made history by smashing the world record and clinching the gold medal. This remarkable performance, showcasing the talents of Giaan Rooney, Leisel Jones, Petria Thomas, and Jodie Henry, captivated a nation and solidified their status as swimming legends.

The Competitors: Giaan Rooney

Giaan Rooney, born in 1983, was a key performer in this relay team, known for her exceptional skills in the backstroke. Her outstanding start set the tone for the rest of the race, showcasing her ability to remain poised under pressure.

Leisel Jones: A Breaststroke Sensation

Leisel Jones, another star of the team, was renowned for her breaststroke prowess, having already earned multiple medals throughout her swimming career. Her stunning split in the relay contributed significantly to the team's overall success and the world record achievement.

Breaking Records and Setting Standards

This remarkable relay was not only about winning gold; it was about breaking barriers. The team clocked an astonishing time of 3:57.32, a new world record that would resonate through the swimming community for years to come.

Petria Thomas’s Role

Petria Thomas was another versatile swimmer who contributed to this record-breaking performance. Known for her butterfly stroke, she brought speed and strength that surged the team forward during her leg of the relay.

Jodie Henry: A Final Push to Victory

Rounding out the team, Jodie Henry was the final swimmer to hit the water. Her powerful sprint in the closing leg sealed the victory, as she raced to the finish line and secured their historic win.

Fun Fact

Women's Relay Team's Unique Record

Interestingly, this remarkable accomplishment was not just about the medals. The Australian women’s 4 x 100m medley relay team not only won gold but did so by surpassing the previous world record by nearly a second, showcasing their elite training and teamwork.