On November 16, 2024, Lucas Bi of Oakville made headlines at the 2024 Alex Baumann Invitational by shattering Canada’s national 100-metre backstroke record at the age of 12. His outstanding achievement has cemented his reputation in history, establishing a new benchmark for swimming brilliance and demonstrating the extraordinary potential of young athletes.
Lucas’ amazing accomplishment has catapulted him into the public eye once more, enhancing the praise he received for his outstanding performance at the event last year. This outstanding accomplishment breaks the previous record set in 2019, demonstrating his extraordinary talent and establishing a new standard.
Lucas stated; “I couldn’t believe it when I touched the wall and saw the time”
Lucas is still dominating the pool, breaking records, and prolonging his winning run. He broke four long-standing provincial marks in addition to the national one: the 200-metre IM, the 50-, 100-, and 200-metre backstrokes.
The latter had not been beaten in more than 21 years. His strong performance at the 2023 swim meet, where he established three more provincial records, further cemented his status as a powerful force in competitive swimming, and this accomplishment builds on that performance.
From novice to expert: Lucas’ swimming adventure
At just ten years old, Lucas started swimming competitively and quickly demonstrated an incredible innate talent for the sport. Years of intense training with his partners at New Stars Swimming Club have brought him one step closer to his dream thanks to his unshakable passion, unrelenting dedication, and uncompromising resolve.
Coach Leo gave Lucas kudos for his diligence and stated, “Training nine times a week is not an easy task. It requires immense determination and willpower. I know Lucas enjoys watching videos of Michael Phelps and Thomas Ceccon, which have inspired him not only in competition strategy but also in the steps towards his goals”
A family member said; “We’re so proud of Lucas, not just for breaking the record, but for the effort he invested into the sport.”