As NCAA swimmers begin taking the blocks for the first meets of the 2026-2027 season, it is time to take a look back at one of the most decorated swimmers ever, Gretchen Walsh.
From 2021 to 2025, Walsh delivered nine individual NCAA championship titles, including a four-peat in the 100 free, two in both the 50 free and 100 fly, and an additional championship in the 100 back.
The NCAA has released a video showcasing each of those NCAA championship-winning performances, which can be seen here.
Even after her collegiate days had come to an end, Walsh is still cemented in history, including four NCAA records that are still standing: the 50 free (20.37), 100 free (44.71), 100 back (48.10), and the 100 fly (46.97). All four of those times also double as American Records for short-course yards.
We have seen Walsh dominate on the international stage over the last several years, repeatedly breaking the 100 fly world record, putting herself in a league of her own in the event, and establishing herself as one of the most elite sprint freestylers.
Though her collegiate accolades speak for themselves, she finished her college career as one of the most decorated collegiate women’s swimmers in history, helping continue the tradition of excellence at the University of Virginia with four national team titles for the Cavalier women and record times that may remain untouched for several seasons.
