In Nanterre, France, Canadian swimming sensation Summer McIntosh is transitioning back to high school life after an incredible performance at the Paris Games, where she secured three gold medals and a silver. Taking a brief break from the pool in Ontario, McIntosh plans to complete her high school requirements this fall before considering her college options, ruling out NCAA programs in the United States to seek more flexibility in her training schedule.
Despite pivotal decisions looming, McIntosh’s immediate focus is planning her 18th birthday party at her family’s lakeside cottage, where friends from both Ontario and Florida, where she currently trains, will gather to celebrate her golden birthday on August 18. Acknowledging the need for a mental break from swimming, McIntosh aims to savor the achievements of her recent performances and enjoy some downtime.
McIntosh’s mother, 1984 Olympian Jill Horstead, commends her daughter’s ability to maintain balance between her athletic pursuits, social life, and academics. The family cherishes the success McIntosh achieved in Paris, highlighted by gold medals in the 400 and 200 individual medleys and the 200 butterfly, along with a silver in the 400 freestyle. While McIntosh did not clinch victory in the relay events, her overall performance left a lasting impression.
Looking ahead, McIntosh expresses excitement about the 2028 Olympics in LA, already setting her sights on future competitions. As McIntosh’s father, Greg, reflects on the family’s journey since Tokyo, he acknowledges the significant impact of McIntosh’s accomplishments and the support system behind her success, emphasizing the collective pride felt both within the family and throughout the country.
