Monday, october 23nd, 2023.- There was a lot of anticipation in the crowd that filled the Olympic pool at the Estadio Nacional for the final of the 800 meters freestyle, in which the Chilean figure and flag bearer, Kristel Köbrich, was competing.

However, the local audience had to watch as the American Paige Madden claimed glory in the long-distance event, finishing with a time of 8:27.99. Her victory was not surprising, as the Jackson native was the clear favorite, having won silver in the 4x200 meters freestyle relay at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and setting a Pan American record in the 400 meters freestyle on Sunday.

The silver medal also went to the United States, with Rachel Stege posting the second-best time (8:28.50). The bronze was earned by the Brazilian swimmer Viviane Jungblut (8:33.55).

Kristel Köbrich, known as "La Cobra," who has three medals in the continental event in this distance, but now specializes in the 1500 meters freestyle, had to settle for fourth place, finishing with a time of 8:35.69.

The local standout will have another chance to win her sixth Pan American medal in the long-distance pool event on Wednesday.

Written Carlos Silva Rojas; translated by Andrés Castro* / Photosport
Photo by Daniel Apui/Santiago 2023 / Photosport