Records Shattered at 2026 Speedo Canadian Open Swimming Championships

Inspiring performances from para swimmers and rising young talents highlight opening night of finals

Apr. 10, 2026 at 6:07am

A fractured, multi-perspective painting featuring abstract, geometric shapes and planes in a vibrant color palette of blues, greens, and golds, conceptually representing the energy and movement of a swimming competition.The 2026 Speedo Canadian Open celebrates the diversity, talent, and potential of Canadian swimming through a cubist-inspired visual interpretation of the competition's thrilling events.Kansas City Today

The 2026 Speedo Canadian Open swimming championships kicked off with a night of record-breaking performances and inspiring displays of talent. Highlights included dominant wins by para swimmers Alyssa Smyth and Reid Maxwell, as well as tight battles in the 400 IM events that showcased the depth of Canadian swimming. Several Canadian Open and age group records were broken, underscoring the progress and potential within the sport in the country.

Why it matters

The Speedo Canadian Open is a premier annual event that showcases the strength and diversity of Canadian swimming. The opening night results demonstrate the country's continued excellence in the pool, from established stars to up-and-coming youth. The inclusion and celebration of para swimming also highlights the sport's commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.

The details

In the women's para 100 freestyle S13 category, Alyssa Smyth delivered a remarkable 934 PARA point performance to take gold. The men's para 100 freestyle saw Reid Maxwell claim victory with an impressive 981 PARA points. The 400 IM events featured tight battles, with Grace Wharton leading wire-to-wire in the women's race and Liam Chew's strategic breaststroke splits proving key to his men's 400 IM win. Taylor Ruck continued her dominance, setting a new Canadian Swimming Open Record in the 100 backstroke.

  • The 2026 Speedo Canadian Open swimming championships are currently underway.
  • The first night of finals took place on April 10, 2026.

The players

Alyssa Smyth

A para swimmer who dominated the women's 100 freestyle S13 event, earning 934 PARA points.

Reid Maxwell

The gold medalist in the men's para 100 freestyle, earning 981 PARA points.

Grace Wharton

The winner of the women's 400 IM, leading from start to finish.

Callie Cardiff

A 15-year-old swimmer who put up a strong effort in the women's 400 IM, closing the gap on Wharton in the final 150 meters.

Liam Chew

The champion of the men's 400 IM, with his strategic breaststroke splits proving key to his victory.

Taylor Ruck

The winner of the women's 100 backstroke, setting a new Canadian Swimming Open Record.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The para events, in particular, showcase the incredible resilience and talent of athletes with disabilities. Their performances inspire and remind us of the power of sport to unite and celebrate diversity.”

— Vijay, Journalist

What’s next

As the Speedo Canadian Open continues, more thrilling races and inspiring moments are expected. The remaining days of the competition will showcase the depth and potential of Canadian swimming, both in the able-bodied and para events.

The takeaway

The opening night of the Speedo Canadian Open has demonstrated the strength and diversity of Canadian swimming. From record-breaking performances to the inclusion and celebration of para athletes, this event highlights the bright future of the sport in the country and its ability to unite and inspire the community.