23 year old superstar swimmer Michael Phelps began his pursuit of a record eight golds in some style this evening. In his 400m medley he set a new Olympic record, winning in a time of 4:07.82min. People have been suggesting that Phelps may lose out on his bid as early as day two in this very event, to fellow American Ryan Lochte. I for one doubt this will happen. Phelps looked like a dolphin as he switched effortlessly between the strokes and cruised home. He was certainly putting the effort in, but it appeared this was simply to set himself a good pace for the nine days rather than to make any bold statements.

Many Olympic records will be broken at these games because of Speedo’s new suit which was help designed by NASA. People have moaned at the use of these suits but the Olympics have always been barometers of social progression and that includes technological advancement. Phelps has stated that he feels like a rocket entering the water when wearing the suit.

However swimming finals come down to more than times. They are not time-trials, and despite what many observers may think, they are races against opposition, not oneself. As streamline as Phelps may be, he will have to perform perfectly in every final if he is to win eight golds. He’s definitely the man/fish to watch.

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